General News
26 May, 2025
Dog conduct in crosshairs
PATROLS are being stepped up on the Cassowary Coast as the council rolls out a campaign to urge all dog owners to do the right thing with their pets and the community.
The regional council has launched a new ‘responsible dog ownership’ campaign aimed at improving safety and shared enjoyment of public spaces across the region.
The campaign highlights the key responsibilities of pet ownership, reminding residents that dogs must be registered each year, kept on a lead in public places and not be a nuisance.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the campaign would focus on education and enforcement.
“(The) Council understands dogs are an important part of many households,” she said.
“But with that comes responsibility. Whether it’s picking up after your pet, making sure they’re secure at home or using a lead in public, these are the everyday actions that help keep our community safe and respectful.”
She said council local law officers would be out and about visiting local parks and beaches to provide information, promote awareness of responsible dog ownership and ensure compliance where needed.
The campaign also reminds dog owners to:
Register their dog with the council annually
Keep dogs on a lead in public or under effective control in designated off-leash areas
Carry dog waste bags and clean up after the pet
Make sure dogs are kept within secure enclosures at home
Address excessive barking and avoid leaving dogs unattended in public places.
“These rules are based on common sense,” Cr Millwood said.
“We’re simply asking people to be responsible and considerate so that everyone can enjoy our shared parks and beaches,” she said.
The council is looking for local dogs to feature in the campaign.
To enter:
Send a photo of your dog showing good behaviour (for example, on a lead, in a secure yard or socialising)
Include the dog’s name, suburb and a short description of their personality
Proof of registration or a visible registration tag in the photo.
Submit to enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au by May 29, 2025 (photo size to be under 25mb)
For more information on dog ownership regulations or to register a dog, visit
