Proposal for dog zones open for comment

It’s time for one last round for receiving feedback and comments from the public before Overstrand Municipality implements trial dog zones on Kleinmond Main Beach, Grotto Beach in Hermanus and Pearly Beach near Gansbaai.

Each of these beaches will have a GREEN (offleash), ORANGE (on-leash) and RED (no dogs) zone.

It is true that not everyone likes dogs or wants to deal with them on a day out at the beach, especially when they have small children with them. Other than a fear of dogs, there is also the possibility of an overly-excited dog jumping on kids or urinating on sandcastles, which do not make for very happy children.

Moreover, beach runners may prefer a beach without dogs, as those with a high prey/chase drive may chase or even attack a runner.

But others enjoy seeing dogs running free in nature. With the new dog zones, the needs of our companion animals, wildlife and beachgoers are all taken into account. The Nature's Valley Trust, which is facilitating this proposal, states that “Zoning will help people, dogs and our shorebirds live their best lives”.

Click below to read more. (The full article can be found on page 3)