FW: [Birding-Aus] I am a dog owner - I am not the enemy

[Bob Dawson <>]

As a long time dog owner, I have in always tried to be responsible, not just 
regarding wildlife, but in all respects regarding dog ownership. I hope I have 
succeeded.

I do feel however that the dog licensing laws need changing. I don't believe 
that dogs need to be licensed so much as that the dog owners need a license to 
show that they are "FIT and PROPER PERSONS to be ALLOWED to own a dog"!

Bob> From: > To: ; 
> Subject: Re: [Birding-Aus] I am a dog owner - I am 
not the enemy> Date: Fri, 1 Feb 2008 12:05:59 +1100> > Hi Cheryl/All,> Good on 
you for taking a stand when you find dogs illegally off-lead.> > There has been 
some considerable discussion on this topic before which I> won't revisit - it 
is in the archive.> Suffice to say - there is considerable evidence (though 
also research saying> opposite) that the scent/spoor of dogs and other 
predators (no doubt> ourselves included!) can discourage animals from an area. 
This may> particularly impact on diversity - some animals may cope fine .> As I 
wildlife photographer myself, I can't tell you my DELIGHT on occasions> to have 
spent ages stalking an animal for a photo only to have some> inquisitive 
off-lead dog 'help' (continuously) or come over just at the> crucial moment.> 
There is also the matter of TURDS too. Many dog owners do the right thing in> 
this regard, especially in 'natural' areas. This is another thrill for other> 
people wishing to observe nature - often with long-term odoriferous (foul)> 
reminders. There are no doubt impacts for wildlife AND plants from these> too. 
I live on a popular dog-walking street. I have planted my naturestrip> but have 
lost plants to excessive dog piss. Also the ones (dogs) who do the> 'token' 
excrement burial routine, digging up plants!> > A few years ago I was involved 
in a local council committee discussing> on/off lead areas for dogs. This ended 
up with we, and council staff needing> security officers and police to protect 
us from one of the dog owners. He> also took to stalking the chair of the 
committee.> > I'd better stop before I really get started!!> > I TOO LIKE