The Octagon and other central city locales should be opened up for Dunedin’s dogs, nearly 70% of submitters say.
After public consultation, the Dunedin City Council said there was “good support” for most of the proposed changes in its review of its dog control bylaw and policy.
This included two-thirds or more of submitters supporting changes that would permit dogs on leads in the Octagon, Princes and George Sts.
Dogs are prohibited from these areas at present.
Views were more divided on changes that would limit the number of dogs a person could have in a public place and for proposals in coastal dunes and other areas.
While a total of 57% of respondents said they disagreed with the changes to the bylaw and policy overall, 67% were in favour of allowing dogs on a leash — but not tied up and left unattended — in the Octagon, Library Plaza, and in Princes and George Sts between the Exchange and Knox Church.
The council noted that views to keep dogs prohibited from these areas were “also strong”.
“This encroaches on my rights to be able to move around the city without being knocked over by a dog, which happens all too frequently even when on a lead,” an anonymous submitter said.
“I would like to continue to go to the library or the Octagon without being barked at,” another said.
“The city councillors are being delusional when they think that Dunedin dogs would be under control when out and about.”
Others raised concerns for those who were afraid of or felt unsafe around dogs, owners not picking up after their pets and children getting hurt.
The majority of respondents supported dogs being let off leash in Ross Creek tracks, at Te Rauone and Purakaunui beaches, and 74% at Frasers Gully Recreation Reserve.
A total of 55% supported dogs being allowed on leash in all coastal dunes areas, except where prohibited.
Aramoana Conservation Charitable Trust member Bradley Curnow said in his submission he strongly agreed that dogs should be on a lead through the sand dunes.
“Our experience is that dogs can unexpectedly come across sea lions in dunes.
“This can result in the sea lion pup or mum being hurt and harassed.”
Meanwhile, 72% of respondents supported a proposal to remove a requirement for dog owners to display a dog poo bag.
The council’s hearing committee will hear from submitters on the draft bylaw and policy at meetings scheduled for Thursday and Friday.
tim.scott@odt.co.nz
