I sympathise with Stuarts frustration regarding irresponsible dog
owners.I have battled this problem for nine years as part of a survey
team monitoring the numbers of Hooded Plovers within the Mornington
Peninsula National Park. We had the situation whereby we had an
endangered species, listed on the flora and fauna guarantee, breeding
within a national park and yet dogs were permitted on leashes at all
times in some sections of the park and certain hours in other
sections(summer months)
The reality was that 99% of all dog owners did not comply with the "on
leash" regulation and as in Stuarts case the usual response was "my dog
wouldn't harm a flea" I have many times observed dogs terrorising Hooded
Plovers, their owners seem to be unaware of the harm they are doing. Our
group has been working on public education for a number of years but the
dog sentiment is very strong "out there"
The dog regulations have recently been changed, dogs are permitted on
leashes only before 9am.The non compliance is still a problem and will
continue to be without a strong ranger presence and regular fines.The
hip pocket nerve usually solves these problems.Our group(the friends of
the Hooded Plover) with the help of one commited Parks Vic.ranger have
made some inroads into improving the management of " Hoodies"but we
still have a long way to go.
Keep up the good work Stuart, it's worth it in the end.
Bett Mitchell
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