The aims of this study are as follows:
Our principal concern is with planning at the area or municipal-wide level, although we provide guidance and suggestions for design and management of individual parks. The study is confined to an examination of access to public open space by domestic dogs in the company of their owner or other human. While important, the issue of stray and unowned dogs is not addressed. The study only considers public open space in large urban centres although the principles are generally applicable everywhere. The study emphasises design and management solutions. Other components of urban pet management strategies (e.g. education) are addressed here only where they relate specifically to public open space and then only by reference rather than detailed examination.
Public open space is taken to mean public parks and reserves. The terms are used interchangeably in this report.
The public realm is a broader concept that includes streets, footpaths and other public places as well as public open space.
When we talk of access to public open space by dogs we are using the term in a general way to distinguish it from banning. It includes both on and off leash access unless specifically clarified in the text.
ACOs or Animal Control Officers are officers responsible for domestic animal management in a particular area. They are usually employed by the local authority.
The study was undertaken over an 18 month period in 1994-1995 by Harlock Jackson Pty Ltd, Planning and Development Consultants in association with Associate Professor Judith K. Blackshaw, Animal Behaviour and Welfare of the University of Queensland and Jane Marriott, Landscape Architect.
The study involved the following procedures.