Council’s pet owner responsibility reminder

Dog owners across Townsville are being reminded to be responsible pet ownership following the State Government’s changes to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Under changes made to the Act by the State Government in mid-2024, on-the-spot fines of $834 apply if a dog is not under effective control in a public place.

Since the introduction of stronger dog control laws 144 fines have been issued in Townsville, mostly for safety concerns identified for dogs off-leash in popular open public spaces.

Townsville Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said effective pet control was essential for maintaining a safe city.

“We all love our dogs, and the best way to love them is to keep them safe and secure at home and on a lead when you’re out and about with them. There is no excuse for not having your dog under control,” Cr Greaney.

“Council conducts patrols across Townsville to make sure pet owners are doing the right thing to keep themselves, their pet and others safe. The last thing any dog owner wants is for their pet to hurt a child or any member of the community.

“Council has more than 20 off-leash areas for dogs across the city and these are the only places where it is acceptable to have your dog run free in public.”

Pet owners should always keep their pet in an adequate enclosure while at home, with fences high enough that the animal can’t jump over and secure enough that the animal can’t dig under it, push it over, or escape through a hole.

For more information on responsible pet ownership, visit Council’s Be a Responsible Pet Owner webpage.