To a lot of people, their pets are essentially their children, and taking them out for a walk and to socialise with others is a traditional everyday way of life.

Any Vet will tell you socialisation of dogs is key tot he overall wellness and health of dogs. Lindisfarne park allows on-leash dog-walking, though a space must be kept away from the park. This park is already fenced. Another similar fence could maintain a space between the park and a new dog walking area. I suggest as per the photographs the larger grassy area of space be utilised for safe dog exercising and socialising.

While this is actually a country-wide issue, Southern Tasmania has very few “off-leash dog walking areas”.

I believe all dog owners would agree that the most exciting thing for their dog is a trip to the dog park where they get to roam free in a safe and controlled environment.

Well run, exercised and socialised dogs are happier, healthier and tend to bark less which annoys others! We can minimise behavioural issues this way.

Having another off-leash but fenced-in off-leash area in Lindisfarne will create more opportunities for dog owners to connect and promote responsible dog ownership and friendships.

Dog off-leash areas mean dogs can engage in extended and vigorous physical activity through free running, ball play and chase activities with other dogs and with family members. They can do this regardless of the age or mobility of their owners. Off-leash areas also allow dogs to interact and socialise with other dogs and people.

Dog parks also promote safety because the Pet Owners are not walking on our busy streets!

We can all agree the Eastern Shore, Hobart is a popular part of Tasmania that has many dogs in the Lindisfarne area.

Lindisfarne park has the space and the perfect set up to the sides of the park for off-leash, fenced in areas, only the fences need to be installed. Currently, I feel this grass area is such a waste of space!

I have also found many elderly walk their dogs at the Anzac park and the area is also not fenced and seems smaller.

Other municipalities report that their dog parks are  draw for people to come to visit their town and often these visits mean engaging in other activities while they are here. This is only a positive for the ever growing Lindisfarne area.

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