Dogs & Pets

When walking your dogs in public they are required to be on a lead. However, they can be exercised off the lead in all City of Holdfast Bay’s reserves but must be under effective control at all times.

• Effective control off lead is when the dog
• Responds immediately to voice commands
• Remains in close proximity and visible at all times (not behind you)
• Does not approach other people, animals or birds unless permitted by the other person
• During daylight savings times, any dog on the beach must be on a lead between the hours of 10am and 8pm.
• Biodegradable dog tidy bags are available for purchase from Council Offices and at various locations throughout the City of Holdfast Bay.

Events that involve loud music or noises may affect your pets and compromise their safety. These can include concerts, fireworks or thunderstorms.

Below are some suggestions of how to prepare your pets for these events and keep them safe:

• Microchip your pets in case they escape the yard
• Have an ID tag on your pets collar with your phone number
• Exercise your pet before the event. This can alleviate anxiety
• Keep your pet inside for the duration of the event
• If pets are outside, ensure fences are secure and cannot be jumped
• Allow your pet to find a space they feel safe. This may include under the bed or in a wardrobe
• Stay home with your pet during the event if possible
• Reward your pet for calm behaviour
• Close windows and doors to minimise the amount of noise
• Put on music or TV to distract your pet

All dogs make noise at some time. However, if you are concerned about the level of noise a dog is creating the first step towards resolving the issue is to try to speak to the owner in a non-threatening manner and try to reach a compromise.

Often the dog owner can be unaware that their dog is causing a nuisance as they may not be at their property when the barking occurs. Most dog owners are willing to work with their neighbours to achieve an amicable outcome.

Should the problem persist please contact an Animal Management Officer on (08) 8229 9999 or email mail@holdfast.sa.gov.au

Should you become the victim of a dog attack or harassment please report the incident to us immediately.

If a complaint is received, the Officer will investigate and may issue a fine, or if the offence is more serious or repeated, a control order may be issued to the owner to ensure no further attacks or harassments occur.

A dog causing a nuisance, wandering at large or responsible for harassing, attacking or chasing should be reported to our Animal management team immediately. We also provide advice on training and other dog management issues. You can report a dog related issue on (08) 8229 9999 or email mail@holdfast.sa.gov.au

Events that involve loud music or noises may affect your pets and compromise their safety. These can include concerts, fireworks or thunderstorms.

Below are some suggestions of how to prepare your pets for these events and keep them safe:

• Microchip your pets in case they escape the yard
• Have an ID tag on your pets collar with your phone number
• Exercise your pet before the event. This can alleviate anxiety
• Keep your pet inside for the duration of the event
• If pets are outside, ensure fences are secure and cannot be jumped
• Allow your pet to find a space they feel safe. This may include under the bed or in a wardrobe
• Stay home with your pet during the event if possible
• Reward your pet for calm behaviour
• Close windows and doors to minimise the amount of noise
• Put on music or TV to distract your pet