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Unless MPM legislation on
dogs-at-large is clear and unequivocal, the victims of incidents
caused by dogs-at-large have difficulty getting any compensation,
and the community is unable to prevent the same incidents
recurring. a
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Dogs-at-large cause the
majority of MPM problems. a
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Restraint laws are designed to
ensure that the owners of inadequately restrained dogs are
considered negligent, and are liable for any damages caused as a
result. a
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Restraint regulation is a
classic example of a community giving up one freedom (the right to
have an unrestrained dog) so that it may gain a greater freedom
(the right for all citizens to walk and travel in public places
without the risk of a dog-related accident). a
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Properly restrained dogs in
public places are good for the community. Restraint should be seen
as the norm for public open space. However, with careful municipal
management, restraint requirements can be relaxed or tightened in
special cases to provide a variety of access opportunities to
residents eg. leash-free areas and dog-free areas. a
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Making MPM decisions about
provision of leash-free areas requires a thorough understanding of
both the benefits and the risks of such decisions. a
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A range of strategies can be
employed to encourage compliance with local restraint laws. a
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As well as providing good
facilities, making restraint laws work depends on good local laws,
effective enforcement, effective community education and efficient
administration. a