Every four years, under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, Victorian local councils must prepare a plan outlining how they will manage dogs, cats and other domestic animals within their shire. Bass Coast Shire Council is renewing its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) for 2026-2029, and we want to make sure your voices are heard, whether you have a domestic animal at home or not!

The DAMP aims to balance the needs and safety of all public space users, pets and the environment, and helps council to understand areas of pet ownership that require further support. The DAMP identifies how Bass Coast Shire Council will:

• Promote and support responsible pet ownership,
• Protect the welfare of dogs and cats in the community; and
• Protect the community and the environment from nuisance dogs and cats

As part of the Domestic Animal Management Plan and the inclusion of responsible pet ownership, we want to hear your feedback for managing dogs in public spaces. Maintaining community wellbeing, safety, protecting our local environment and supporting the joy and benefits of having a dog are our top priorities. As part of this consultation, we are reviewing dog leash regulations and facilities at 3 sites and want to fetch your thoughts and feedback.

• Rhyll Recreation Reserve (42 – 52 Lock Road Rhyll)
• Blue Gum Reserve (119-133 Settlement Road Cowes)
• Headland Way Reserve (31-41 Ullathornes Road Inverloch)

Whether you're a proud pup parent or enjoy peaceful walks in the park, your input will help shape the future of our dog-friendly spaces.

Your feedback helps us understand local animal-related issues, where community need more education and support from Council, and what are the priorities of domestic animal management for the next four years. Feedback from this initial round of consultation will help us consider emerging issues and ensure the Domestic Animal Management Plan is relevant.