Overstrand Municipality steps up ‘dogs on leash’ compliance

Overstrand Municipality’s Environmental Department requests that residents living adjacent to the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, or the general public using the nature reserve for recreational purposes be mindful of the current state of the veld and support the recovery of wildlife after the recent fires.

“A young female duiker, injured during the January fires in Fernkloof, was released two weeks ago back into the nature reserve after two days’ of rehabilitation at the Hermanus Animal Hospital,” said spokesperson, Riana Steenekamp.

“She was chased and traumatised by dogs running free in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.”

Steenekamp said that this animal and many others that have been released in this area are trying to cope with a change of home range and some are still recovering from injuries.

“We urge residents to restrain their pets chase any wild animals.  These animals have already been traumatised and displaced by the fire and we are trying to ensure a safe space for them in the areas east of the Fernkloof Botanical Gardens,” she added.

“The Fernkloof Nature Reserve is protected by the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act and pets should not be allowed on the Nature Reserve at all.

“The Municipality has made an exception to allow pets on Fernkloof within designated areas, but for this allowance they must be on a leash.”

Overstrand Municipality steps up ‘dogs on leash’ compliance

Steenekamp said that it is against the Municipality’s by-law to have dogs off-leash in public places and people who follow the law are frustrated by those who don’t.

“Allowing a dog in a public place without being kept on a leash under control of a person will result in a fine of R200 and/or impoundment.”

• People who walk their dogs must have bags with them to pick up dog droppings.

She said that according to the municipal by-law, dogs must always be on a leash and should be under control of the person holding the leash. Section 6(2) and (3) of this by-law clearly stipulate that “No person may or cause to be allowed any dog to be in a public place unless it is kept on a leash.”

Any contravention of this by-law can be reported to the Municipality’s Law Enforcement at 028 313 8996 or Control Room 028 313 8000/8111. Alternatively send an email to enquiries@overstrand.gov.za, providing us the license plate or address of the person concerned.

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