Putting your best paw first

Cr Adrian Schonfelder with his white Swiss shepherd Whistler. (Supplied)

Surf Coast residents can take the lead in helping to make the region where people and their pets can live together safely.

Surf Coast Shire Council has invited people to provide feedback on the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan before August 14.

Councillor Adrian Schonfelder said he would love to hear the community’s feedback on how council can manage animals and “encourage responsible pet ownership” across the shire.

“Local laws relating to domestic animals are in place to ensure the community is safe for people and pets,” he said.

“Whether you’re a pet owner or not and whether you’re a local or someone from outside the shire who loves bringing their dog here; all input will be valuable.”

Cr Schonfelder said more than 4500 dogs and 570 cats were registered across the shire.

“It’s worth mentioning that we acknowledge there are many pet owners who always do the right thing, and we thank them for that,” he said.

“I know through the bond with Whistler, my white Swiss shepherd, just how special pets are and that they’re part of the family, offering many health and wellbeing benefits.

“Now is an ideal opportunity to offer a friendly reminder about how pet owners can play their part to make the Surf Coast an even better place to live and visit.”

Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/DAMP25 for more information and to complete the survey.