Input needed for Domestic Animal Management Plan

Published on 27 September 2022

West Wimmera Shire Council is calling for the community to provide input into a new plan for animal welfare in the shire.

The Domestic Animal Management Plan 2022-2026 is currently being developed.

Under Victorian law, all local government authorities are required to prepare a plan on a four-year cycle.

The aim of this plan is to promote animal welfare, the responsible ownership of pets, and the protection of the environment.

The plan will ensure a range of controls are in place so that people and domestic pets can exist together in a safe way, and that the environment is protected from any negative impacts.

Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout said an important part of developing the plan was to seek valuable input from the community.

“Council formally invites feedback from the community, which will be considered during the finalisation of the 2022-26 plan,” he said.

“Your input will help inform Council on how we shape responsible pet ownership through a range of service and initiatives.”

The plan will look at initiatives such as education programs, proactive patrols in public spaces, animal care and rehoming, and innovative solutions to nuisance issues.

Following the community consultation period, a draft plan will be developed and presented to Council, along with all the submissions received from residents.

To have input into the plan, a survey is available to fill out here.

Hard copies are also available from customer service centres at Kaniva and Edenhope.

The consultation period will close on October 14.