The human-animal bond is a deep and mutually beneficial relationship between humans and animals that has significant emotional, psychological, and physical benefits. This bond is characterised by a strong connection and interaction that can positively impact both parties.
Here in Lane Cove, we are fortunate to have an abundance of green open spaces, many of which serve as venues for various sporting activities. In addition, we boast one of the largest numbers of dedicated off-leash dog parks on the North Shore.
Over the past two years, I've heard both sides of an ongoing issue between the sporting community and the dog community regarding the shared use of these green spaces.
Dogs are an integral part of our lives here in Lane Cove, and those of us who have them would agree that they bring immense benefits to our well-being. The same can be said for participation in sporting clubs.
Local veterinarian, Dr. Tanya Phillips, shared some valuable information with me about the profound benefits our furry friends bring to the community. She highlighted examples such as emotional support and companionship, stress relief, exercise and cardiovascular health, teaching children responsibility and empathy, and providing care support for the elderly and disabled. Moreover, there is a strong sense of "pet community" in our area, as one resident expressed:
"I want to let you know what a sense of community allowing dogs on KSO provides. I have connected with a variety of people while I am there with my dog. Many older people, younger people as well. I have started to get to know some of the 'regulars.' It is lovely. I have interacted with people who live on my street; these are people I would otherwise not have met. Often local issues are discussed."
On the other hand, there have been complaints about dog behavior that impacts the condition of the sporting fields and affects the players who use them. Issues include dog holes risking injury, sticks left in the way, dogs running dangerously during sporting games, and, of course, the unfortunate habit of some owners not cleaning up after their dogs. These actions, likely from a small number of dog owners, upset a significant portion of the community.
Studies, such as the City of Ryde Council's Dog Recreation Needs Study, have identified that off-leash dog areas benefit both the health of owners and dogs but need to be well designed. The Lane Cove dog community has noted that our current enclosed off-leash areas are not suitably designed or pleasant to visit. The report summarises: "The provision of dog off-leash facilities is justified by the demonstrated social and health benefits associated with well-designed and located facilities."
Key issues and challenges identified in the study include:
- Identifying and ranking community views on whether or not off-leash dog recreation areas—enclosed and/or unenclosed—are a legitimate use of public parks and green space.
- Identifying and responding to specific demands for dog recreation areas—current and future.
- Identifying the optimal supply of dog recreation areas.
- Managing dog recreation space and facilities (i.e., conflict management, dog owner education, enforcement of the Companion Animals Act, facility maintenance).
From my time spent on the Lane Cove Dog Advisory Committees, I agree with these points. I believe that the first item is ranked as important by the Lane Cove community.
Looking to the future, we need to bring everyone involved with the use of our sports green spaces together. We need to improve the management of these recreation spaces and enforce some of the Companion Animals Act regulations. Positive reinforcement policies for good behavior from dog owners are essential. Importantly, we need to educate the entire community about this issue and ensure that both dog and owner behavior adhere to guidelines, promoting harmony when sharing our sporting fields.
Let's get a harmonious solution to this, for all the community, in the future.