There are no enclosed dog parks in the entire city of Moonee Valley.

Approximately 1 in 4 households in Moonee Valley own a dog and yet there is nowhere where we can safely take them to exercise freely and socalise them with other dogs.

We have just 9 off lead dog parks in our council - none of which are fully enclosed. Neighbouring councils, such as Moreland City Council have 51 designated off lead dog parks. Boroondara Council has 44. Darebin City Council has 34. Hume Council has 33. Brimbank Council currently has 21, including 7 that are fully enclosed. The City of Banyule recognises the importance of exercising dogs off lead so much so that ALL their parks are designated off lead (excluding conservation areas).
 What about us MVCC? How are you catering for the 10,000+ registered dogs in your council?

Dogs need space to run, play and socalise with other dogs to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive - resulting in barking and neighbourhood disputes. After all, most behavioural problems in dogs stem from lack of physical and mental stimulation. Yes, some of us may be able to run with our dogs on lead but unfortunately not all of us can do that. What about seniors and those who cannot walk their dogs, let alone run with them? What about those of us who don't drive?

The closest off lead parks in the Essendon/Strathmore area are not even within walking distance. So to exercise our dogs off lead we are meant to transport them? The parks closest - Boeing Reserve, Cross Keys Reserve, Aberfeldie Park and Fairbairn Park are all used for organised sporting purposes on weekends, which make it virtually impossible for dogs to enjoy a good, safe run around. Not to mention, these parks are located along main roads and/or rivers. 

220 minor parks, 97 playgrounds and 0 enclosed dog parks.....

Alf Pearce Park is ideally located at the top end of Bulla road and is already partially blocked off by the Tullamarine freeway, meaning there are only two streets on its boundary rather than four. It is not used for any organised sporting purposes and is centrally located in the Essendon/Strathmore area.

An enclosed dog park won't just be beneficial for dogs but to the people of Moonee Valley also. Why?

- It'll make for a great community area, a place for neighbours and other dog owners to get to know one another and exchange advice.

- It will lessen the likelihood of owners letting their dogs off lead in ON lead areas. 

- Helps to avoid off-leash dogs from annoying other park users

- Decreases the chances of dogs running onto roads and causing accidents

- The presence of dogs may deter crime

So please, sign this petition if you would like to see an enclosed dog park in Moonee Valley.