Here's what you told us about animal management

Thank you to everyone who their shared feedback on animal management in Manningham.

Your input is helping shape our next Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-29 which will be available for review later this month.

You can find a snapshot of results from our recent consultation below.

Who we heard from

We received over 1,800 responses to our community survey from various community groups, residents, and organisations involved in the animal management. We heard from people of diverse ages groups, backgrounds and genders, which is a great reflection of our local community.

When it came to pet ownership, here’s who responded:

• 62% dog owners
• 18% cat owners
• 15% owned both cats and dogs
• 5% did not own a pet.

We also heard from:

• Community organisations
• Domestic animal businesses
• Animal welfare and rescue groups
• Animal shelters and veterinarians
• FOMDAC
• Animal training clubs
• Dogs Victoria
• Sporting clubs.

What you told us

Your feedback showed strong support for:

• Responsible pet ownership
• Safer, more inclusive public spaces
• Balancing community needs with animal welfare.

Key findings:

• 96% of respondents knew pets should be microchipped and registered by 3 months of age
• Many supported simpler, more flexible registration options
• 50% experienced cat nuisance in the past year
• 72% were aware of the 2024 cat confinement order
• Main dog-related concerns: dog poo, off-lead dogs, barking
• Support for cat desexing.

Community suggestions:

• More education and engagement
• Stronger enforcement and presence
• Better access to dog training
• Infrastructure improvements (fencing, bins, taps).

Community concerns:

• Dogs off-lead and not under control
• Barking and waste
• Wandering cats and confinement
• Registration costs
• Perceived lack of enforcement.

Thank you for your feedback.