In July, a survey was conducted to gather public opinion on various dog control measures.
Over 6,000 responses were received, addressing issues such as leash requirements on paths and tracks, wildlife protection, dog owner responsibilities, and the use of community spaces.
Animal Services Manager Lionel Bridger said “what we heard loud and clear from the responses is whether people own a dog or not, they understand how vital it is that we protect our natural habitats from being disturbed.”
The survey revealed that 77 per cent of respondents supported better controls on where dogs are allowed in the Avon Heathcote Estuary, home to more than 140 bird species.
69 per cent advocated for stricter dog controls in parts of the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor to safeguard habitat restoration efforts and wildlife.
Sixty-four per cent supported some restrictions in new stormwater basins help bird populations establish.
Bridger said “particularly in breeding season, dogs can have a devastating effect – even the presence of a dog can make a bird abandon its nest.”
However, he assured that the Council would not remove opportunities for dogs to run freely in open spaces.
“This is about developing a balanced approach which meets the needs of people, birds, dogs, and wildlife.
The survey also covered whether dogs should be leashed on shared paths, footpaths in parks, and formed tracks.
“Many dog owners commented that they already used a leash or that they would like other dog owners to use a leash to make things safer for dogs and people, especially in busy areas.”
Other areas of inquiry included sports fields, community gardens, jetties/wharves, leash requirements on footpaths, and the number of dogs one person should control at a time. The survey results on leashing dogs on formed tracks were mixed, with 44 per cent supporting leashing to protect wildlife, biodiversity, safety, and grazing stock, while 49 per cent preferred off-leash adventures.
A draft bylaw and policy will be released for public feedback later this year, with the final adoption to be considered by the Council.
