MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire is calling for community feedback to update its draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-29, to help manage dogs and cats in the community. The four-year plan will look at current animal management services and review existing domestic animal local laws and orders to ensure they meet the needs of the community.
Councillors endorsed the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan at their 1 July meeting, which is now currently open for public feedback until 8 August.
The plan supports responsible pet ownership, reducing nuisance reports (like barking or roaming animals), encouraging registration, microchipping and desexing, responding to dog attacks and managing high-risk breeds. Keeping the community and wildlife safe as well as partnering with rescue groups and reducing euthanasia rates are also contained in the draft plan.
“Pets bring so much joy to our lives, and we want to make sure the rules and services that support them reflect what matters most to our community”, mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said. “This is your chance to help shape the future of animal management on the peninsula.”
The new four-year plan will be lodged with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action by 4 December. To have your say visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/damp.
First published in the Mornington News – 15 July 2025
