Dogs and the Environment

Owning a dog can have positive physical, psychological health benefits. Dogs can also help build social networks within the community. However, dogs can have a negative effect on our environment if a responsible person does not control them.

Uncollected Dog Poo

If every dog in the Marrickville area were to be taken for a walk each day, and the owners left behind just one dog poo, it would mean that several tonnes of dog faeces would end up in our waterways each year.

Faeces can contaminate waterways by getting washed off grass and pavements and moving untreated into the Cooks River, Sydney Harbour and Botany Bay. Faeces in creeks and rivers lead to an increased level of nutrients which provides a more favourable environment for algal blooms, and is also a great home for bacteria which can cause diarrhoea and health related problems.

Problem:

  • Dog poo in our streets and parks is smelly, unsightly and is very unpleasant to step in! 
  • Dog poo may also carry intestinal parasites that can be transferred to other animals and also to humans
  • Dog poo may contain harmful bacteria and nutrients and this can be washed into our storm water system and into natural waterways

Solution:

  • Remove your dog's poo immediately
  • Properly dispose of your dog's poo in a rubbish receptacle
  • Regularly worm your dog (every 3 months)

Council provides special dog tidy bins in parks where dogs are known to frequently exercise. Council also provides dog tidy bags which are attached to these bins.

If a bin is not available, dog owners should use another rubbish receptacle when disposing their dogs' poo and remember to carry their own bags.

Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, the owner or person in charge of a dog that defecates in a public place must immediately remove the dog's faeces and properly dispose of them. This offence carries a maximum fine of $880

Native animals and their habitat

The original native plant and animal communities within the Marrickville LGA have been extensively modified as a result on human development, and this has impacted on native animals and their habitat. Although the area around Marrickville is urban, it still contains over 80 species of native animals (birds, reptiles, frogs, mammals and fish) including an endangered population of Long-nosed Bandicoots. Marrickville Council is working to protect and enhance our native biodiversity as much as possible by restoring habitats, particularly in local parks and reserves.

Problem:

  • Dogs running in vegetation and bush land areas can damage and destroy the habitat of native animals
  • Roaming dogs and unsupervised dogs may chase, injure and/or kill native animals

Solution:

  • Keep your dog on a leash at all times, unless exercising in a dedicated dog 'off leash' area
  • Keep an eye on your dog at all times and under effective control when exercising in a dedicated dog 'off leash' area

Secure your dog on your property and do not allow your dog to roam

Be a responsible dog owner and take care of our environment.