We are so lucky living in this region! The Eurobodalla Shire Council has generously designated several unspoiled beaches as leash free for dog owners and their pets.
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People and pooches can run, swim and play freely together all day on these beaches. Unfortunately even in these beautiful, natural environments there are hazards that can impact on yours and others enjoyment.
Top of the list – dog poo! All leash free beaches have signs asking owners to clean up after their dog. Unfortunately dogs can't read and sadly some owners choose to ignore the request, which is a health issue and a courtesy to all who use the beach.
Dog poo, buried in the sand, is a distressing “find” for a young child having fun making a sandcastle. And it is an unpleasant for anyone to inadvertently step into doggie doo.
Another hazard can be the excited free running dog. Even in leash free areas dogs still need supervision. A dog running full pelt towards another beach user or pet, jumping up, lunging and even growling can be very frightening for all involved.
Natural hazards, especially for our pets, are those delicious fishy morsels that wash up on the beach. Dogs just love them! Puffer fish, kelp roots, rotting carcasses and fish hooks hidden in discarded catches are extremely dangerous to a dog if swallowed.
Arnie, the dog in the photo, took a fancy to a large kelp root he found on the beach. Down it went, but his stomach could not digest it. Thankfully Arnie’s life was saved by a local vet.
Now Arnie’s owner has taught him to "leave" anything that could be harmful. Having voice control of your dog, even if it is several metres away from you, can save your pet’s life. And being aware of and helping to reduce hazards on the beach, will enhance the enjoyment of your beach walk with your dog.
Need help? Narooma Dog Training Club has weekly Obedience Classes suitable for dogs of all ages and stages. So if you are a dog owner and would like to have your dog return to you when called, avoid dangerous substances and behave well in public, then give us a call – 0458 953 289.
We take registration for Obedience Classes the first Saturday afternoon of every month. Our beaches are great places. Let’s all do our best to make them safe and fun or all users.
AWL Movie Night
Ever imagined what your dog or cat might do for fun without you? If you want to know, then join us at the AWL Tailwagger’s Night at the Kinema, Narooma, for a new movie “The Secret Life of Pets.” This fundraiser evening on Friday, September 9, begins with drinks and nibbles at 7pm for a 7.30pm screening of the hilarious animated film of pets home alone. The cost of $20. allows for a generous amount per ticket to be used to foster and re-home unwanted dogs and cats. Your support is critical to the Eurobodalla AWL network of volunteers, so come along for a good laugh. Don’t forget, make a date with your dog for the “Tailwagger’s Walk” on Sunday morning, September 18 from NATA oval to the boardwalk and back for refreshments and fun with the whole family.