Community members are being encouraged to have their say on the management of domestic animals.

Cr Suzanne Allen said managing cat confinement and the noise of barking dogs emerged as key issues during early consultation to help shape Baw Baw Shire's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2029.
After councillors voted to release the draft plan for review, round two consultation is underway and council staff will be available at community markets in the coming weeks to discuss how it may affect pet owners.
Earlier this year, 79 people shared feedback. Cr Allen reported a majority had been "thoughtful and constructive", with key issues and new idea put forward.
"People really do care and it shows," she said.
Wandering cats, desexing programs, need for more fenced dog parks, safety around stray animals and microchipping were key themes to emerge in the feedback, Cr Suzanne Allen said. People not picking up after their animals, the need for stronger education and enforcement around pet ownership, more patrols and faster response times also were listed.
New ideas were put forward such as an annual pet adoption day, pro-rata registration fees for mid-year adoption, a small dog area in Drouin, cat confinement education and obedience training before dog adoption.
The Domestic Animal Management Plan outlines council's approach to managing dogs and cats in the community. It focuses on three core areas:
Promoting responsible pet ownership;
Supporting the welfare of dogs and cats; and
Protecting the community and environment from nuisance animals.
Under State Government legislation, every Victorian council must review and renew its DAMP every four years. The review ensures that the plan reflects current community needs and expectations, while maintaining public safety and animal welfare.
Acting mayor Tricia Jones encouraged residents to get involved in the second round of community consultation.
"Whether you're a pet owner, an animal lover or someone who simply wants to enjoy a safe and respectful community environment, your voice matters.
"This is your opportunity to help guide how we manage domestic animals across Baw Baw Shire for the next four years. We want to hear from you to finalise the DAMP, so have your say, your way."
Community members can provide feedback by completing the online survey or submitting a written response by Sunday, June 29.
Council staff also will be available to discuss the draft plan at community markets this month including:
Warragul Farmers Market - Logan Park, Saturday, June 21, 8.30am to 12.30pm
Drouin Farmers Market - Civic Park, Saturday, June 21, 8.30am to 12.30pm
Yarragon Market - Public Hall, Saturday, June 28, 8.30am to 12.30pm
For more information and to have your say, visit Baw Baw Connect, council's online engagement platform - www.bawbawconnect.com.au/domesticanimalmanagementplan