Clover's spin

NEW OFF LEASH PARKS FOR PYRMONT

Pet owners will be able exercise their dogs off leash in three parks
in Pyrmont following extensive consultation to find suitable off-leash
spaces.

On Monday, Council unanimously resolved to permit dogs off-leash at
all times in Giba Park in Point Street, Metcalfe Park on the wharf at
Pirrama Road and Waterfront Park in Bowman Street. Under the Companion
Animals Act, dogs are required to be under the effective control of
their owners at all times, whether they are on- or off-leash.

Pets play a vital role in peoples' lives, providing support and
companionship. Evidence shows that pet ownership improves general
health, helps prevent loneliness and encourages exercise and social
interaction. Pets are particularly important for older people and
people who live alone.

In August, we distributed more than 6000 letters to residents in
Pyrmont and installed signs to notify people about proposals to make a
allow dogs off-leash in a number parks and spaces around Pyrmont.

In their report to Council's Environment and Heritage Committee, City
staff considered all submissions and assessed each park against the
criteria for off-leash parks outlined in our Companion Animals Policy.
Community views were many and varied, and a number of residents
addressed the Committee.

The City encourages and supports responsible ownership and developed
our Companion Animals Policy to promote it. We require owners to
pick-up waste after their dog, and we provide free 6-week obedience
classes for puppies and adult dogs and free pet de-sexing for pension
card holders. We educate non-pet owners and children about animal
behaviour and have a partnership with Sutherland Council to provide an
animal shelter with the lowest euthanasia rate in NSW, where
volunteers walk the dogs every day and work to find them all new
homes.

Information
* Officers' report: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Council/
MeetingsAndCommittees/2010/Committees/291110/environment.asp
* Visit http://www.petsinthecity.net.au for more information about
higher-density living and enjoying the many benefits offered by pets.