Hundreds of Australian travellers, particularly those who own dogs, are calling for a significant change to national park regulations, urging authorities to lift the longstanding ban on dogs in most national parks across the country.
A Change.org petition, initiated by a couple advocating for the inclusion of dogs, has garnered attention from pet owners and sparked heated debate. The petition argues that Australia’s national parks should follow the example set by countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, where dogs are often allowed in national parks. In contrast, New Zealand enforces a blanket ban on dogs in its parks.
“This law makes it very difficult for many Australians with their family pets to visit some of the most beautiful areas in Australia,” the petition states, with co-creator Al telling Yahoo News that he believes dogs and native wildlife can coexist peacefully in these protected areas. He emphasized that with proper control, such as keeping pets on leashes, dogs could enjoy the parks without disturbing wildlife.
Despite the growing support, the petition has met with criticism, particularly from those concerned about the potential negative impact on wildlife. Critics argue that many dog owners fail to control their pets adequately, which could lead to unintended harm to animals and ecosystems. One forum participant expressed concerns, stating that dogs off-leash would disrupt wildlife, particularly species like lyrebirds and bandicoots.
In just 48 hours, the petition has gained nearly 650 signatures, with supporters insisting that well-behaved dogs on leashes should be allowed in national parks. One signatory called the exclusion of dogs “unfair,” stating that “you should be able to take all family members into national parks, including well-behaved on-leash fur ones.”
Currently, while dogs are allowed in some state parks and reserves, they are generally prohibited from national parks unless they are service animals. Pet owners have pointed out that these restrictions force them to incur additional costs for house sitters or boarding facilities when visiting national parks.
However, experts, including Jordan Crook from the Victorian National Parks Association, have voiced strong opposition to the proposal. Crook acknowledges the well-intentioned nature of the petition but warns of the significant risks it poses to local wildlife. He explains that even leashed dogs can disrupt native species by emitting strong scents that drive animals away, including lyrebirds and shorebirds like hooded plovers, which can abandon their nests due to the presence of dogs.
The negative impact of dogs on wildlife is well-documented in Australia, with introduced species like dogs, cats, and horses known to pose threats to vulnerable native animals. Crook emphasizes that national parks provide critical safe habitats for many species and that pet owners must respect these natural sanctuaries to ensure the survival of Australia’s unique wildlife.
The petition remains a divisive issue, with proponents advocating for change and critics urging caution to protect the integrity of national parks and their ecosystems.
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