Dog attack prompts action

Brush-tail possum.

A recent incident involving a dog that killed a possum on a local beach has prompted Barwon Coast to encourage beach users to register for a free workshop.

The unrestrained dog was seen brutally killing a brush-tail possum and carry its prize along the foreshore in Barwon Heads, Barwon Coast manager community liaison and education Maddie Glynn said.

“This could have been easily prevented had the person responsible for the dog, kept it close by and under effective control,” Ms Glynn said.

“Some people would say, it’s just a brush-tail possum, however, due to old trees being removed from the landscape, housing development and people displacing possums from their private residence, these nocturnal animals are left to roam during the day, becoming vulnerable, stressed and open to attack by dogs and cats.”

Barwon Coast’s Share our Shores program will initiate a free workshop to gather information on how to share our beaches and what to do in the event of an incident and how to keep yourself, your family and wildlife safe.

“Our coastal strip is home for these creatures and many more, but it won’t be if we continue to think that it is there purely for the enjoyment of people and domestic pets,” Ms Glynn said.

“We must all work together to learn to Share our Shores.

“We can co-exist and have the best of both worlds, we just have to be aware of our local wildlife that relies on the coast for their very existence and be responsible.”

To register your attendance at 24 November Beach Harmony Workshop, email natalie@cherishedpetcare.com.au or go to www.trybooking.com/YDTD.