UPDATE: Whittlesea Council is urgently considering mandatory dog desexing as part of its newly adopted Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP), which was finalized on November 18, 2023. This significant move follows feedback from 1,428 community members, highlighting the pressing need for better management of dog and cat issues in the area.
The DAMP reveals alarming statistics: approximately 55% of impounded dogs in Whittlesea are not desexed, and a staggering 99% of dog attacks prosecuted involved non-desexed dogs. The council is motivated by data suggesting a direct correlation between desexing and improved animal behavior, making this initiative crucial for community safety.
Approximately 40% of respondents to the draft DAMP expressed strong support for mandatory desexing for newly registered dogs. Some community members have advocated for the council to offer subsidized desexing services and educational programs on the appropriate timing and benefits of this procedure.
Officials from Whittlesea Council have stated they will explore the feasibility of implementing mandatory desexing before making a final decision. This potential policy shift comes alongside enhanced guidelines for responding to dog attacks, utilizing data-driven initiatives to streamline reporting and increase transparency.
Additionally, the DAMP outlines plans for an education program aimed at helping residents choose the ‘right dog breed’ for their households. The council is committed to addressing the overpopulation of dogs and cats through targeted adoption campaigns and an annual open day at its animal shelter, Wat Djerring.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed as developments unfold—this could significantly impact pet ownership and community safety in Whittlesea. The council’s commitment to exploring these measures reflects a proactive approach to animal welfare, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
As the council deliberates next steps, community members are invited to participate in discussions and share their views on this critical issue. This potential policy could reshape the future of pet ownership in the region, making it a topic worth sharing and engaging in today.
