Following the 23 September 2025 Council Meeting the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) 2026-2030 is ready for community feedback.
Responsible pet ownership affects everyone, whether or not you have a pet. The way we manage domestic animals plays a key role in maintaining a safe, harmonious, and healthy community.
The City of Whittlesea is renewing its DAMP, which sets out how Council will support and manage domestic animal services over the next four years.
More than 1,200 residents shared their thoughts on cats and dogs in our community when we consulted our community in June. The insights gathered have helped shape the draft plan, which is now being open for public review and feedback.
The draft plan addresses a range of topics, including:
- desexing and microchipping
- effective control of dogs in public areas
- dog on- and off-leash areas
- nuisance dogs and cats
- barking dogs
- cat confinement
- collection and disposal of animal waste.
Community members can view the draft plan and provide feedback until Thursday 16 October 2025 at engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/damp26.
Quotes attributable to Cr Martin Taylor, Mayor of the City of Whittlesea:
“Pets bring joy, companionship and wellbeing to so many households in our community, and it’s important that we support responsible ownership to keep both animals and people safe.”
“This plan outlines how we will manage domestic animal services over the next four years and helps ensure our public spaces are safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
“We encourage all residents to have their say on the draft plan so that together we can create a balanced and effective approach to animal management in our city.”