Dog walkers are being reminded to keep their pets on a lead when walking them on Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves to prevent confrontations with wildlife.
Corangamite Shire Local Laws Officer Daniel Boyle said Council had received reports of off-leash dogs chasing wildlife.
"All dogs must be kept on lead on the mount reserves at all times, regardless of whether there's wildlife around," Mr Boyle said.
"Keeping your dog on a lead means you can have full control if you meet other animals or people.
"Your pet might not be aggressive, but if they're put in an uncomfortable situation, they could get scared and attack out of fear.
"Some working breeds might have an instinct to round up wildlife, while other dogs might approach out of curiosity or playfulness.
"Kangaroos can injure or kill a dog to defend their territory or if they think their joey is threatened.
"If a kangaroo won't move off the path, take a different route or come back later."
"They are a protected species and fines may apply if you allow your dog to attack one," he said.
"The Mount Leura and Mount Sugarloaf reserves are there to be used, so by all means exercise your dogs on lead there. We just encourage owners to have respect for other people and for the environment.
"Local laws officers patrol the areas and can issue penalties for dogs not on the leash and not cleaning up droppings."
Here are some tips about how to stay safe around kangaroos:
- Don't walk directly towards a kangaroo.
- Don't stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out towards a kangaroo.
- If kangaroos that are engaged in courtship or mating behaviour, eg males sniffing, touching or moving around with females, give them plenty of space—and privacy.
- If male kangaroos are sparring, fighting or flexing at each other, stay well out of their way.
- Keep your distance from a kangaroo that is growling or clucking.
- Don't come between a mother and her joey.
- Keep your dog away from kangaroos. Kangaroos will vigorously defend themselves against dogs, and this may put you and your canine mate in danger.
- Kangaroos may cross roads at any time but take particular care at dusk and dawn when they are active and lighting is poor.
Owners are also reminded about the potential risk to their pet by snakes and other wildlife if they are not on a lead.
