Now there’s no excuse

Jane Emerick
SURF Coast Shire dogs will now have purses for their poo thanks to a council initiative to reduce animal waste littering.
Council local law officers will give away 6000 nylon purses, designed to store plastic bags for dog waste removal, to registered dog owners and visitors in Surf Coast Shire.
Director of Corporate Services Stephen Wall said Cr Ron Humphrey brought the nylon bags, which attach to a dog’s collar or lead, to the shire’s attention in October.
He said their introduction coincided with a proposed new law requiring dog owners to have a bag for their dog’s waste when in public.
Torquay and Surf Coast Dog Action Group president Kaye Rogers welcomed the purses.
“Promoting the pick-up of dog pillage is a good thing, because right now it is big problem,” Mrs Rogers said.
“With the purses there’s no excuse for people who are not carrying a bag.
“When you say, ‘I’m sorry I don’t have a bag’ – that’s not on.”
Mrs Rogers, a dog owner and trainer, said she already used something similar to the purses to store plastic bags and dog treats for her border collie.
Cr Humphrey, a dog owner, said the purses were a great tool for dog owners.
“They use the bags in the City of Greater Geelong,” he said.
“They really promote responsible dog ownership and are great for educating people about picking up after their dog.”
Mayor Rose Hodge, who’s dog died last year, said she looked forward to working with responsible dog owners in the future.
“I am really keen to work with action groups and dogs so we can get a really good balance between humans and dogs on the beach,” she said.
A proposed Surf Coast Shire law requiring owners to carry bags for their animals’ droppings is in public consultation until January 12.
Under the laws, owners caught walking their dogs without a bag would face a $220 fine.
Existing laws require owners to pick up their dog’s droppings.
The pouches, which cost council $1.75 each, will be available free from local law officers or at the council office.