Allow Domestic Dogs Into National Parks

Many pet-owning travellers are upset that they are effectively barred from some of the country’s most beautiful places, claiming that if their dogs are kept under control there would not be a problem allowing them into National Parks. Some rely on dogs for companionship and recent research has shown that grey nomads who travel with pets have fewer chronic health conditions.

Having been dog owners for many years we find it difficult to accept that domestic dogs not be allowed into National Parks. We understand the rules for not allowing dogs into restaurants and shops etc, but not for parks as that is the most natural place for them to be with their owners. Reasons given for this rule are that the dogs may defecate and owners not pick up the droppings. Apart from the problem of others stepping in the droppings it is said that the smell may scare off other animals. Solution, heavier penalties for owners who fail to pick up after their dog along with the provision of ‘doggie’ bags in main car parks (for owners who fail to carry them). It is also claimed that domestic dogs may attack wildlife. Solution, heavier penalties for owners who fail to have their dog on a leash and under control. Another concern is that domestic dogs can breed with dingos. Solution, as part of a registration process (see below) only de-sexed dogs can be approved. Ensure that dogs going into National Parks have been trained, are registered (see note below) and are de-sexed.

If domestic dogs are banned, why is it that horses and motor bikes are allowed in the National Parks? Don’t they cause far more damage? Domestic dogs under strict control would cause no damage.

We would recommend a National Park (NP) registration system for the purpose of allowing domestic dogs into National Parks. Dogs in National Parks (DINAP). Owners would be required to complete an application form showing full details of themselves and their dogs (with photographs of the dogs for easy identification and to ensure the approval is legitimate and verifiable). An annual fee could be charged to cover any administrative costs (say $25 per annum).

Suggested National Park Rules for Domestic Dogs.

Only NP registered (and de-sexed) dogs allowed entry under complete control by their handler.

No more than one dog per adult.

Complete ban on dangerous dogs such as Bull Terrier, Rottweiler etc as well as hunting dogs.

Dogs MUST be on leash and under control at all times (bright colour lease?).

Owners MUST pick up after dogs.

Dogs must be kept to established walking trails.

Suggested (minimum) Penalties for breach of rules.

$1,000 on the spot fine for dogs not on leash.

$1,000 on the spot fine for not picking up after dog.

$1,000 on the spot fine for dogs off walking trails.

$5,000 on the spot fine for owners of dogs not shown on registration and compulsory surrender of dog.

$5,000 on the spot fine for owners of dogs not registered and compulsory surrender of dog.

$1,000 on the spot fine for owners of dogs with out of date registration.

+ Lifetime ban on pets in National Parks for any person in breach of rules.

It may be said by some that there will be people who abuse the system and continue to take their dogs into National Parks without any control over them and who fail to pick up after them. These irresponsible people will do this (and are currently doing this) in any case regardless of laws and regulations.

Please support this petition (and perhaps contact your local member for their support).