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City of Charles Sturt Animal Management Kit

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Welcome 3

Your Dog and The Law Registration of Dogs 4

Limit of Dogs on Premises 5

Dogs on the Foreshore 6

Pick Up After Your Dog, Keep Our City Clean 6

Your Dog & the Public 6

Barking 8

Puppy Classes 9

Dog Obedience 9

Vet Clinics and Pet Services 10

List of Organisations – advice on dog ownership 11

Dog On Leash Areas Within the City of Charles Sturt 12Effective Control 12

Doggy Parks within Charles Sturt Pooch Park 13Puppy Park 13

Dog Attack and Bite Avoidance 14

Claiming your Impounded Dog How do I Claim my Dog? 16

Cats Be Responsible and Make a Difference! 18Lost Cats 19Found Cat 19

Index

Welcome Welcome to the wonderful world of pet ownership.

Dogs and cats are great family pets and are treated like a member of the family.

Pet ownership is extremely rewarding and owning a pet can be associated with healthy living and overall enjoyment. Pet ownership does come with responsibilities, ensuring we can continue to enjoy our furry companions for many years to come.

This booklet outlines important information about pet ownership as well as helpful hints for you and your new companion.

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Registration of DogsCharles Sturt’s objective is to return a lost pet to its owner as soon as possible. Easy identification of your pet is the key to a swift return home. If you have purchased your dog from the Animal Welfare League first year dog registration is free.

Under the provisions of the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 Act you are lawfully required to:

• Register your dog at 3 months of age, and renew your dog’s registration each year from 1 July.

• Once registered your dog must wear a collar and disc at all times whilst in a public place.

• The registered owner must be a person aged 16 years or over, and that person must notify the Council as soon as possible if:- The dog is moved to different premises;- The dog dies, or is missing for more

than 72 hours; or- Ownership of the dog is transferred to

another person.

These are all legal requirements and failure to comply may result in an expiation notice of $80 being incurred.

Your Dog and The Law

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As per Council’s By-Law Number 6 the limit on the number of dogs kept is• one dog per premises; or

• in premises with sufficient open space area, two dogs. A ‘sufficient open space area’ means 20 square metres of private, fenced land that is accessible to a dog from the premises and suitable for the purpose of exercise.

A permit process applies to keep more than the allowable number of dogs and application fees apply.

The permit only applies to the dogs approved by Council in the permit application. New dogs are not covered by the permit.

If you are unsure whether your property is suitable, contact Council to discuss your present situation with an Animal Management Officer.

Limit of Dogs on Premises

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Dogs on the ForeshoreControls apply to dogs on the foreshore within the City of Charles Sturt (Semaphore Park, Tennyson, Grange, Henley Beach and West Beach).

Dogs must be held on a leash between 10am and 8pm during daylight savings period and must be under effective control at all other times.

Expiation notices may be issued where a person does not have their dog under control and we encourage all dog owners to carry a lead at all times.

Pick Up After Your Dog, Keep Our City CleanDog waste is not only unsightly, but there are also environmental risks with discarded pet waste. It is also an offence for dog owners not to pick up their dog’s faeces.

Failure to carry a bag, whether the dog defecates or not is a separate offence under council’s by-law.

Expiation notices may be issued.

Your Dog & the PublicThe Act sets out a number of offences for which the owner responsible for control of the dog can be fined. Should your dog attack another member of the public severe consequences will result. It is also a fineable offence if your dog is found wandering at large.

Your dog must also be under effective control at all times by:

• Means of a chain, cord or leash that does not exceed 2 metres in length restraining the dog; or

• By command, the dog being in close proximity to the person and the person being able to see the dog at all times.

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Dogs bark for a variety of reasons including separation anxiety, boredom, changes to lifestyle and health problems.

If you are a neighbour experiencing problems with a barking dog there are a few things you can undertake in working towards a solution.

1. Contact the dog owner

In most cases the dog owner is unaware their dog is barking and the solutions may simply be a visit to your neighbour to inform them of the situation. A face to face visit is usually most effective, however if you are uncomfortable you can simply leave a note in your neighbour’s letterbox making them aware of the situation.

2. Involving the Council

Contact Council on 8408 1111 to discuss your concerns. The formal process involves the Council sending you an information kit with a diary for recording details of the barking behaviour for 14 days.

Once your completed diary is supplied to the Council, one of the Animal Management Officers will then assess the dog’s behaviour and visit the dog owner. Most owners are willing to work with us to find ways to stop their dog from barking so much.

If the dog owner fails to decrease the noise nuisance after the initial visit from us, a full investigation will be conducted. This will include talking to other surrounding neighbours that may also be affected by the dog’s behaviour.

If the problem persists, an order may be served on the owner, legally requiring them to take all reasonable steps to reduce the noise.

Responsible dog owners should also:

• exercise the dog daily• have the dog desexed if it is not

intended for breeding• ensure all vaccinations and worming

schedules are adhered to• always supervise young children near

dogs• ensure your dog is property trained, all

dogs benefit from Dog Obedience

If you are not at home for a long period of time, your dog may be bored. Here are some options you can explore:

• Doggy Day Care• Leaving your dog with a neighbour• Employ a dog walker• Visit a Delta behavioural trainer

Barking

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Puppy ClassesPuppy classes run by most Veterinarians are an important part of your puppy’s healthy development. These programs are suitable for pups under 16 weeks of age and are fun, educational, and informative. The most significant benefit is the socialisation with other people and other puppies. Socialisation is critical from a young age to prevent the antisocial behaviour and aggression which unsocialised dogs can develop.

Dog ObedienceIf dogs are not trained they can develop bad habits and by taking your dog to obedience training, your dog gains respect and learns its place in the family hierarchy. What your dog learns in its first year it will carry through to its adulthood, so be responsible and get the most from your intelligent canine friend. Dogs from 6 months onwards are the ideal age to attend Obedience Training as their concentration levels are more developed. Follow these basics and you can expect a long, happy and mutually enriching relationship with your dog, your family and the community.

The City of Charles Sturt promotes the Woodville Dog Training Centre as a local positive enforcement training centre.

Woodville Community Dog Training CentreClub Grounds, Oval Avenue, WoodvillePh: 8268 5046

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Having your dog desexed, microchipped and checked by a vet annually (including vaccinations) are basic ways to ensure your pet is happy and healthy. If you have a new puppy or are registering your dog for the first time, you can now visit one of the clinics listed below (NDR) to register your dog.

Also indicated on this guide are the clinics that offer “puppy classes”. Socialisation and the training of your dog are very important to ensure your dog learns good behaviour and lives harmoniously within the community

Croydon Port Road West Croydon Veterinary Clinic499 Port Road, West Croydon, Ph. 8340 0388

Findon (NDR, PC)Findon Veterinary Surgery221 Grange Road, Findon, Ph. 8347 3444

Fulham Gardens (PC)Fulham Gardens Veterinary Surgery475 Tapleys Hill Road, Fulham GardensPh. 8355 5475

Grange (NDR, PC)Grange Veterinary Surgery625 Grange Road, Grange, Ph. 8356 0511

Henley BeachHenley Beach Veterinary Clinic206 Military Road, Henley BeachPh. 8356 2557 or 8356 9387

West LakesThe Pet DoctorUnit 1, 153 Brebner Drive, West LakesPh. 8353 3600

Woodville (PC)The Pet Doctor5 Woodville Road, Woodville SouthPh. 8268 6777

PC = puppy classes

NDR = new dog registrations (excludes dog registration renewals).

Vet Clinics and Pet Services

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Animal Welfare League of SA11 Cormack Road, WingfieldPh: 8348 1300

Charles Sturt Dog Owners Association Inc.Ph: 8235 1104 or 8449 3960

RSPCA (SA)172 Morphett Street, Adelaide.Ph: 8231 6931

SA Canine AssociationCromwell Road, KilburnPh: 8349 4797

Woodville Community Dog Training CentreClub Grounds, Oval Avenue, WoodvillePh: 8268 5046

List of Organisations – advice on dog ownership This is a list of organisations dog owners can contact for advice about dog ownership

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Within the City of Charles SturtUnder the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 dog owners are required to keep their dogs on a leash in public places such as streets, roads and footpaths.

The following locations are dog on leash areas within the City of Charles Sturt.

In areas that are not dog on leash areas owners are required by law to make sure their dogs are under effective control.

This means that the person in control of the dog must be able to demonstrate voice control of the dog and it must be within close proximity of and within sight of the person in control of the dog.

If you are unsure or if your dog is boisterous please keep them on a lead.

Dog On Leash Areas

Effective Control

1 Collins ReserveValetta Road, Fulham GardensDog on leash

2 Fresh Water Lake (Duck Pond)West Lakes Boulevard, West LakesDog on leash

3 Henley Square, Henley BeachDog on leash

4 Nancy Fisher ReserveHurcombe St, Henley Beach SouthDog on leash

5 Nedford ReserveNedford Crescent, Fulham GardensDog on leash

6 Parfitt SquareDrayton Street, BowdenDog on leash

7 Port Road Median StripDog on leash

8 Tatura ReserveTatura Crescent, Fulham GardensDog on leash

9 Toledo ReserveToledo Avenue, West Beach

10 Jubilee ReserveBartley Terrace, West Lakes ShoreDogs on leash during sporting events

11 St Claire ReserveWoodville Road, WoodvilleDogs prohibited on sporting oval And must be under effective controlWhile being exercised on the outerReserve

12 West Lakes LakeDogs on lead while on walkwayaround lake

13 Fenced Dog Park (dog off leash)Tedder Reserve (Linear Park)Findon Road, Findon

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Pooch Park Pooch Park has an extensive range of dog agility equipment making it the ultimate in dog playgrounds. Toilet facilities are close by, located within the beautiful landscape of Linear Park. Accompanied by their owners Pooch Park is open to dogs of all ages, to enjoy the benefits of socialising and play within the safe and secure fenced area. Charles Sturt promotes responsible dog ownership and although Pooch Park is a fenced reserve, as a responsible dog owner we encourage you to ensure your dog is under effective control at all times within the park.

Address: Tedder Reserve (Linear Park), Findon Road, Flinders Park

Puppy ParkSouth Australia’s first Puppy Park is a purpose built facility exclusively and designed for Puppy socialisation, exploration and play. The park is a reasonably sized fenced area, where dog owners of puppies under the age

of 12 months can exercise their dogs safely. It also includes a puppy playground with agility equipment. It is important to ensure Puppy Park is utilised for its designed purpose and the following are a few points to outline the importance of utilising Puppy Park for Puppies and not older dogs.

We invite you to visit Puppy Park in the first 12 months of your dogs life. Dogs 13 months and older can be taken to Pooch Park. Outside of Puppy Park the remainder of Sam Johnson reserve is an off-leash reserve and therefore caters for older dogs as they can be off-leash and under effective control within the reserve.

Your investment in socialising your puppy frequently, by visits to Puppy Park and DELTA accredited training classes, will go a long way to prevent inconvenient and sometimes costly behaviour traits once your dog is older. As many people will utilise this newly constructed park if you do witness a fault or maintenance issues please contact the Council on 8408 1111.

Address: Sam Johnson Reserve, Devon Park

Doggy Parks within Charles Sturt

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Dog Attack and Bite Avoidance Dog attacks can be devastating to both the victim and the dog owner. Through responsible dog ownership and constant supervision we can all work towards reducing dog attacks.

You can avoid dog attacks by:• Always supervising young children and

babies near dogs• Teaching children appropriate behaviour

around dogs• Choosing a breed that is suited to your

lifestyle and environment• Ensuring your dog has the opportunity

to socialise safely with other dogs and children and is adequately trained

• Keeping children away from a sick or convalescing dog to let it recover without interruption

• Teaching children to interact with dogs by modelling the desired behaviour

• Refraining from tying a dog up in the yard. Children tend to tease tethered dogs even without realising it, which can lead to aggressive behaviour

• Removing your dog from excitable environments – especially children’s parties where it may become over excited or disoriented, and potentially aggressive as a result

• Ensuring your property is secure and checked regularly.

Teach Your ChildTeach your child to:• Never approach a strange dog without

asking permission from the owner• Never approach a dog while it is tied up,

feeding, sleeping, in a car or a dog with puppies

• Approach a dog by moving slowly and quietly. With the back of the hand, curl your fingers and allow the dog to sniff.

• Stroke the dog gently on the chest, or under the chin.

Other Important Rules• Never tease a dog, pull its ears or tail.• Never let a child discipline a dog.• Do not let children walk a dog without

adult supervision.• Stop your bike if being chased by a dog

and stand perfectly still.• Provide the dog with a bed that is

separated from noisy high activity areas.• Ensure there is no way your dog could

escape from it’s yard.• Desex your dog to reduce likelihood of

aggression.

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What do I do if a strange dog approaches me?If a strange dog approaches you, stand very still, do not stare the dog in the eye as the dog may see this as a challenge, and keep quiet and calm; running away screaming may stimulate the dog to chase you!

Report all dog attacks - Council encourages all dog attacks be reported as soon as possible telephoning 8408 1111. If your dog harasses or attacks another person or animal severe consequences may result.

“Be Smart and Be Safe”

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Claiming your Impounded Dog If the City of Charles Sturt has seized and impounded a dog we believe is yours, there is a process to follow to collect your impounded dog. Please read the following information carefully to find our how you claim your dog, including the payment of the associated fees.

How do I Claim my Dog?1. Attend the Animal Welfare League

Go to the Animal Welfare League to firmly establish the dog is yours.

2. Attend the City of Charles Sturt Civic Centre You will be required to show current identification such as a driver’s licence to verify your identity and address and pay the outstanding fees. Once the fees have been paid you will be given a release form.

3. Return to the Animal Welfare League You will then need to return to the Animal Welfare League with your release form and collect your dog.

What do I do if my Dog isn’t Registered?

If you reside in the City of Charles Sturt and your dog is not currently registered, your dog will not be released until it is registered. To register

you dog you will be required to complete a registration form and provide identification to verify your identity and address.

What are the Contact Details for the Animal Welfare League?

Address: 19 Cormack Road, Wingfield

Opening Hours: 10am to 4pm daily including public holidays for dog collections

The Animal Welfare League only acts as an impounding facility and has had no involvement in the seizure and impounding of your dog. All enquiries in regards to the impounding of your dog need to be directed to the City of Charles Sturt.

How do I Claim my Dog on Weekends and Public Holidays (see over for Christmas Day)

Contact the City of Charles Sturt on 8408 1111 and leave your name and contact details with the after hours call centre operator. A Council Officer will then contact you to make an appointment to meet you at the Animal Welfare League. You will still be required to provide identification to verify your identity and address and pay the outstanding fees before your dog is released. Your dog must be registered before it is released. Please note that only cash payments can be accepted on weekends and public holidays.

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Cats Be Responsible and Make a Difference!Cats have so much to offer – they provide companionship, affection and entertainment whilst being economical, clean and easy to maintain. The decision to own a cat however is a very important decision. Selecting the right cat needs plenty of thought. Remember lack of planning contributes to surrendering and abandonment.

To be a responsible cat owner you should:

• Identify your cat with a collar and identification tag and/or microchipping. By having your cat identified in this way, it will be protected by law if it roams. If you do not identify your cat in accordance with the law you run the risk of it being collected and disposed of as an unowned cat.

• Microchipping is the most permanent form of identification for your cat and can be implanted by your Veterinarian. Should your cat be trapped and taken to the Animal Welfare League it will be scanned and via a national database will be able to find its way home again and very importantly will not be classified as an unidentified cat.

• Desex your cat before its first season (recommended 5 to 6 months of age).

A desexed cat is less likely to fight, contract serious diseases relating to fighting or demonstrate antisocial behaviours such as spraying and the desire to mate.

• Vaccinate and worm your cat to protect it from potential life threatening diseases. Ask your Veterinarian for more information.

• Fleas can cause illness in your cat and can irritate human skin too! Check your cat regularly and ask your vet for advice.

• Interact with your cat daily because cats need attention and affection and this will ensure your cat feels like a part of the family.

• Environmental enrichment for your cat is very important. Keeping your cat inside with environmental enrichment also reduces the health risks associated with outdoor cats, including abscesses from cat fights, feline flu, leukaemia or feline AIDS.

• Toileting. Ensure your cat has an appropriate place to go to the toilet. Cats are fastidiously clean and it is important to make sure your cats kitty litter is cleaned daily.

• Confine your cat at night. The Cat Protection Society found that 94% of

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accidents (car accidents or fights) in a three week period occurred at night. Cats that are kept inside live at least three years longer on average than cats which are allowed out. Keeping your cat in at night is good for neighbourly relations and avoids the cat calling, or “yowling” along with other cat related complaints.

Lost CatsIt is a distressing time when you realise your much loved feline friend has not returned home or is not where he or she should be.

You should act quickly by contacting the Council on 8408 1111. We can tell you if a cat matching the same description has been reported to us.

Found CatsShould you find a cat which is identified but you do not know who the owner is, this cat runs the risk of being classed as an unowned cat. If the cat looks healthy and is not causing a problem, you can choose to leave it alone as it is likely to be someone’s pet.

If you are concerned or if the cat is causing damage then you may choose to hire one of Council’s cat cages. No fee is charged, however a $20 deposit (refundable upon return) applies. Cat cages are available from the Kilkenny Grain and fodder at 106A David

Tce Kilkenny. The cat may then be taken to the Animal Welfare League.

Limit of Cats Per Household

The Council By-Law number 6 limits the keeping of cats to 2 per household.

Cat owners wanting to keep more than two cats are required to apply for a permit, please contact Council on 8408 1111.

If you have concerns about insanitary conditions caused by excessive number of cats the Council’s Environmental Health Officers may investigate this matter.

Here are five simple rules of responsible cat ownership.

1. Identify your cat so it won’t get lost, be destroyed or be classified as unowned.

2. Confine your cat at night to keep it safe from accidents, away from local wildlife and out of your neighbour’s property.

3. Desex your cat if you don’t plan to use it for breeding.

4. Visit your veterinarian for vaccinations, worming and general health.

5. Love and care for your cat and it will love and care for you.

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City of Charles Sturt72 Woodville Road WOODVILLE SA 5011

P 08 8408 1111F 08 8408 1122E council@charlessturt.sa.gov.au