Wednesday 28 November 2012

Keep dogs under control at the beach during summer

Dogs are welcome at Christchurch beaches in summer but to keep everyone smiling and enjoying their local beaches, Christchurch City Council wants to remind dog owners that certain rules come into effect.

From 1 December 2012 to 1 March 2013, 9am to 7pm special restrictions apply to dogs when they are at the beach. On most beaches the rule is that dogs are not allowed within 100 metres of a surf club, unless for the purpose of passing through the area, where the dog must be leashed and controlled. However, for each beach the rules are slightly different so dog owners need to check the signs placed at the high tide mark on each beach as these will tell them what the specific rules are for that beach.

Council Unit Manager Inspections and Enforcement, Gary Lennan, wants Cantabrians to enjoy their summer and the beaches that are a huge part of the Canterbury and Banks Peninsular coastlines.

“But for everyone to enjoy our beaches, dogs must be under control so families and children can enjoy the sun and surf without having to worry about uncontrolled dogs. Remember – not everyone loves dogs as much as the dog owner does. Just be courteous and keep dogs out of the surf club areas where people are swimming and enjoying the summer sun.”

As the rules apply differently to each beach area, dog owners are encouraged to visit the Council website for more information www.ccc.govt.nz/files/ESAC002-info-sheet-prohibited-restrained-dog-control-areas-docs.pdf

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