Council is asking for feedback on a draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) 2021-25 developed after community consultation earlier this year.

The draft Plan was developed using more than 3000 pieces of feedback gathered through online surveys and at pop-up consultation sessions held around the municipality earlier this year.

The draft Plan sets out how we create a harmonious environment between pets, people, other animals and our environment. And, how Council will oversee the management of cats and dogs from:

• handling nuisance complaints
• controlling overpopulation
• supervising ownership of restricted dog breeds
• monitoring domestic animal businesses

It also sets out the responsibilities of pet owners including animal registration, microchipping and making sure their animal is properly contained.

Among the feedback Council received during consultation with the community was the request for more action to be taken on roaming pet cats and stray cats because of the harm they cause to wildlife and the nuisance they create for neighbours.

Additionally, we heard many requests for action to encourage dog owners to pick up after their pets and keep them on leashes in public places.

This draft Plan contains a range of changes from the previous Plan, including the introduction of mandatory desexing of new cats registered with Council from 2022. Evidence from neighbouring councils showing that desexing cats has a positive impact on their behaviour and reduces the stray cat population within the community. This Plan proposes that Council work with local vet clinics to educate owners about the benefits of desexing their cats and develop a discounted pet desexing program for concession card holders.

The Plan also recommends Council undertake further community consultation in relation to the issue of a cat curfew within the municipality, looking at the experience of other councils.

Under the Plan, Council will also be partnering with the City of Darebin and Moreland City Council to promote the importance of dog socialisation and training. And, continue the education campaign to encourage dog owners to pick up after their pets and keep them on leashes in public places.

Take a look at the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan and let us know if you think we've got it right. You can leave a comment or ask a question in the Q&A section or watch the online information session recording below.