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Role of the community in animal managementAnimals are usually an accepted part of the community. For most people, pets are like members of the family. Other people don't want to have certain types of animals near them. A few people have a real fear of some animals, including dogs. Councils and AMWs have to consider all people's feelings when managing issues with domestic animals.
Local laws give people the right to keep certain types of animals. Local laws also make owners responsible for what their animals do. If an animal is a threat or a nuisance to others, the owner can be fined. In some cases, an animal can be put in the council pound or destroyed.
People keep their animals for different reasons. A dog can be company, or security. Poultry provide eggs. Goats and cows give milk. Some people have special interest in animals like horses. Every animal must be properly controlled and cared for by their owners in yards or pens.
There are also animals that must not be kept in communities. These can include native animals and animals that are declared vermin or pests.
People must not keep more dogs or other animals than are allowed by local laws. (The local limit might be two dogs, 12 hens, one horse, etc.)
The local laws are meant for the benefit of the whole community. If people understand the laws and the benefits, they are less likely to break the laws. The AMW should make people aware of the laws, and why the laws are there. However, animal owners must take responsibility for the animals they keep.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries website has information on an owner’s duty of care to animals. This could be useful for your community education programs on animal management.
People in the community are not all able to get or use chemicals for treating parasites and skin diseases in their dogs. Think about having a 'dog health day' where all the dogs in the community can be treated at one place. Health checks can help control mange, ringworm, ticks, fleas and other diseases and parasites that can affect people.
At the dog health day, you can give people information about keeping their dogs healthy. For example, if a dog rubs its backside on the ground, it probably has worms. Maybe include a demonstration of how to treat dogs for worms. The Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities (AMRRIC) website has good information on animal management programs. Remember, you may need to hold an approval from your local Queensland Health Population Health Unit to supply treatments. Talk to your local office for more information.
A community 'dog health day' could ensure the job is done safely and that any chemicals or medicines are properly managed. Ask your visiting vet about the best ways to get rid of worms, ticks, fleas, and other dog parasites.
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