Responsible Dog Ownership
A Happy Dog is a Well-Cared-For Dog
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience—but it also comes with responsibilities. Whether you’re a new dog owner or a seasoned pup parent, understanding your responsibilities helps keep your dog, your community, and the environment safe and happy.
🎥Watch Our Short Educational Video
The short video highlights key responsibilities for dog owners, including control in public spaces, and access rules for dogs on beaches and reserves. The initiative is part of Council’s ongoing commitment to community safety, animal welfare, and public awareness.
🦴 Your Responsibilities as a Dog Owner
Registration & Microchipping
All dogs must be registered and microchipped as per council regulations.
- Your dog must be registered once it turns six months old, or penalties will apply. You can register earlier than 6 months if you wish.
Laws & Control
Dogs must be on lead in public unless in a designated off-lead area.
Cleaning Up After Your Dog
Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog. It’s the law—and it’s the right thing to do.
- When exercising your dog ALWAYS carry a pooper bag to collect your dog’s waste. You can use freezer bags or plastic bags too.
- Dispose of waste responsibly.
- Sorell Council provides red disposal bins in many areas throughout the Sorell municipal area.
- Dog faeces can pollute the beach and river and can be a breeding ground for diseases in dogs and humans.
Noise Control
Prevent excessive barking and nuisance behaviours.
Health & Wellbeing
Regular vet visits, vaccinations, a balanced diet, and exercise are essential.
🗺️ Find a Dog Exercise Area Near You
Explore Off-Leash Parks and Dog-Friendly Spaces
Our community is home to several off-leash dog areas where your dog can run, play, and socialise safely.
Prohibited Public Areas – All times of the year
The following applies:
- Any area within 10 metres of a playground
- Any grounds of a crèche, kindergarten or school without the permission of the person in charge
- Shop or shopping centre
- Any playing area of a sports ground on which sport is played
*Guide and hearing dogs are exempt from this prohibition.*
🐾Please remember these important points:
- Not all dogs are friendly – don’t let your dog rush up to other animals.
- Not all people want to interact with dogs – don’t allow your dog to approach people without their consent.
- At all times dogs must be in sight of the owner and responsive to a command.
📞 Need More Help?
Have questions or concerns? Contact our Animal Management team at (03) 6269 0000 or email us at sorell.council@sorell.tas.gov.au