Ballina welcomes humans’ best friend to new dog park

THE NEWEST dog park in the Ballina Shire will officially open on Saturday, August 10, at 9.30 am, with a special event for the pet-owning community.

The council is inviting dog owners and their pups to the Alstonville Gap Road Dog Park to try the new agility park, which is designed to challenge and entertain dogs of all sizes and skill levels.

Owners can participate in a free mini-session with a professional dog trainer, who will offer tips and advice for better training and behaviour management.

Residents can also meet with rangers to learn more about their work, collect free desexing vouchers, and enjoy complimentary coffee and ‘puppuccinos’.

Manager of public and environmental health Kerri Watts said she was enthusiastic about the new park and the upcoming event.

“This new dog off-leash area will be a dedicated space for our community’s dogs to play and socialise safely,” Watts said.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for residents to explore the park’s new features and engage with our local rangers.”

“We’ve designed it to be fun and informative for dogs and their owners. It’s a great way to foster a sense of community and promote responsible pet care,” she said.

Ballina Council recognises the need for dogs to exercise unrestrained. It maintains seven off-leash areas that allow pets to exercise, roam freely and socialise under the supervision of their owner.

Other areas include Bicentennial Gardens, Seven Mile Beach, Ballina Heights Estate, The Spit, Headland Drive Drainage Reserve at Skennars Head and Compton Drive East Ballina.

The council is keen to remind the community that dogs must remain under ‘effective control’ (close by and respond to commands). Owners must pick up after their dogs and ensure pets do not chase or harm wildlife.

The new exercise area at Gap Road was created under the council’s endorsed Companion Animals Management Plan, which aims to create a safe, healthy and supportive environment for animals and the community. The facility was co-funded by the NSW Government and Ballina Shire Council.

For more information about dog off and on-leash areas, visit ballina.nsw.gov.au/exercising-your-dog