Public Open Space and Dogs

CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

 

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

1.2 Objectives and scope of the study

1.3 Key definitions

1.4 Methodology

1.5 Contents of the guide

1.6 Who should use the guide

2.0 The role and place of domestic pets in the community

2.1 The popularity of pet ownership in Australia

 

2.2 Benefits of owning pets

 

2.3 Responsible pet ownership

 

3.0 Open space planning and management in Australia

3.1.. Planning for public open space

 

3.2. Management of public open space

 

3.3 Summary

 

4.0 Domestic Dogs in the public relam: the case for continued access

4.1 Potential conflicts

 

4.1.1 Defecation

 

4.1.2 Aggression towards humans and other animals

 

4.1.3 Barking and other nuisance behaviour/A>

 

4.1.4 Compliance with leash laws

 

4.1.5 Current situation

 

4.2 Why dogs need access to public open space

4.2.1 The popularity of dog ownership

4.2.2 Acceptable behaviour at home and in the public realm

4.2.3 Benefits for humans

4.2.4 Urban consolidation means greater demand for public open space

4.2.5 Compliance with by-laws

4.3 Summary

5.0 Towards a model for access to public open space by dogs

5.1 Recognition of the legitimacy of dogs and their owners.

 

5.2 Evaluation of needs

5.2.1 Needs of dogs

5.2.2 Needs of dog owners

5.3 Integration not separation

5.4 Adopt a Strategic needs based approach

5.5. Summary

6.0 ASSESSING THE OPTIONS AND ESTABLISHING THE FRAMEWORK

 

6.1 Assessing the options

6.1.2 Free running areas

6.1.3 Banning dogs from parks

6.1.4 Different zones in one park

6.1.5 Time-share arrangements

6.2 Establishing a municipal-wide framework

6.3 A hypothetical example:"Anytown"

6.4 Implementation

6.5 Summary

 

7.0 SPECIFIC GUIDELINES FOR THE SELECTION, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT OF INDIVIDUAL PARKS Location and accessibility

Form and layout

Surrounding land use

Designing parks with dogs in mind

Fencing

Paving and surfaces

Removing faeces

Other support facilities

Signage