Latrobe City Council is inviting community members to have their say on the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 – 2029.

The Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) focuses on the management of domestic companion animals, specifically dogs and cats. 

Council is committed to balancing the needs of pet owners with those in our community who do not own pets. Consideration has been given to both parties in the development of our DAMP 2026-2029. 

Council acknowledges the role it plays in promoting responsible pet ownership and enforcing legislation. In 2023/24 there were 2713 cats, and 9789 dogs registered in Latrobe City. 

Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman, encouraged people to review the Plan and share their feedback.

“Pet ownership is positively associated with social interactions, increased feelings of neighbourhood friendliness and sense of community,” said the Mayor.

“With around 69 percent of Australians owning a dog or cat, these benefits, when aggregated across the whole community, are of significant interest to Council and others concerned with building healthier, happier neighbourhoods.

“Our Local Laws team provides a broad range of services to ensure that Council meets its legislative responsibilities relating to the management of domestic animals. This includes educating residents, management of the Pound, investigating animal complaints and maintaining a domestic animal register.”

Make your submission via Council’s Have Your Say Latrobe City Platform: yoursay.latrobe.vic.gov.au/domestic-animal-management-plan

Submissions close 5pm, Tuesday 29 July 2025.