Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 - 2029

The Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) focuses on the management of domestic companion animals, namely dogs and cats. Latrobe City Council acknowledges the role it plays in promoting responsible pet ownership and enforcing legislation.

We are committed to balancing the needs of pet owners with those in our community who do not own pets. Consideration has been given to both parties in the development of our DAMP 2026-2029.

Pet ownership is positively associated with social interactions, community involvement and increased feelings of neighbourhood friendliness and sense of community. With around 69 percent of Australians owning a dog or cat, these benefits, when aggregated across the whole community, are of significant interest to Council and others concerned with building healthier, happier neighbourhoods.

The main objectives of DAMP include:

• Identify methods for evaluating animal control services

• Promote responsible pet ownership

• Minimise the risk of dog attacks

• Address over population and high euthanasia rates for dogs and cats

• Encourage registration and identification of dogs and cats

• Identify dangerous, menacing and restricted breed dogs

• Review all existing Council orders and local laws that relate to dogs and cats

• Identify programs for training of authorised animal management officers

• Provide for the periodic evaluation of programs and service strategies

You're invited to have your say on the DAMP before 29 July 2025.