Tips for a pawesome summer in Launceston
Published on 16 October 2023
With temperatures on the rise, the city's dog owners are hitting trails and off-leash exercise areas across the municipality.
City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said the summer months were a fantastic time of year for Launceston families and their four-legged friends to explore the municipality's network of dog-friendly trails, parks and reserves.
"Warmer weather means that there are more people out in our parks and reserves, and more fur babies out with their families as well," Mayor Garwood said.
"So it's important as dog owners that we're considerate of others, that we pick up after our pets, and that we are aware of where it's required to keep our dogs on a lead.
"There's a dog for every six people in Launceston and, as a whole, Launceston's dog owners are responsible and considerate owners, who consider their animals to be a part of their family, and who do the right things.
"This includes ensuring their pet is microchipped, de-sexed, registered and wearing clear identification tags, as well as ensuring your pet has access to shelter and water at all times, and a secure and safe area to call home.
"Unfortunately, we also have animal owners that aren't as considerate, who let their animals wander, who risk the lives of their animals and the animals of others; we've seen already this year serious dog attacks on livestock and other pets.
"In those instances, the City of Launceston will investigate and prosecute owners and the courts may declare a dog dangerous or even order that it be destroyed.
"So please don't put our regulations officers in that position this summer; we want this to be a great summer where Launceston residents can enjoy everything our city has to offer, whether they have two
legs or four."
Mayor Garwood said it was a perfect time for pet owners to check their dog's collar and identification tags, and to replace them if they show signs of wear and tear.
"We know that during the winter months, pet owners tend to walk their dogs closer to home, but that when the weather warms up people really enjoy exploring new areas," Mayor Garwood said.
"Remember that many parts of Launceston are on the urban fringe where other animals live, including snakes.
"It's common for us to find more dogs wandering from home in the warmer months, and that's due to anumber of reasons.
"Firstly, there tends to be more people coming and going around people's homes over summer, and that means more chance of doors and gates being left open.
"Another common thing we see is how old timber fencing contracts and expands from winter to summer, and whole planks of it may just fall off, creating escape routes for your pets.
"While we all want our dogs to enjoy their walks, it's important to remember that dogs must be on a lead when being walked on a public street and can only be off-lead in designated areas.
"With the hotter days, it's more important than ever that your dog has access to water and shelter at all times.
"These are just some simple examples of how you can be a responsible dog owner and ensure your fourlegged friend enjoys the upcoming summer in Launceston."