12. LGOM 012 – Animal Control

Managing Animals

The purpose of this guideline is to provide an overview of the issues involved managing animals in patrol areas.

The management problems associated with controlling animals include:

• The danger that the animal may pose to members of the public or itself.
• Health and hygiene problems associated with animals.
• The potential to attract other dangers (sharks and crocodiles have been known to be attracted by domestic animals).
  

Within the regulatory framework established by the land manager the lifeguards should:

• Ensure there is no immediate danger to the public.
• Report to appropriate authority / agency.
• Control the animal (if possible).
  

Dog Control

Dogs causing a nuisance should be removed by authorised ‘Animal Control Officers’ by contacting the Local Council Officer/Animal Control Officer.

Dog Prohibited signs as provided by Councils must be erected at the designated areas at the beginning of each day and must be removed at the end of each day.

Lifeguards should refer to the Local Operations Manual for more information.

Snake Control

Snakes causing a nuisance should be removed by authorised ‘Animal Control Officers’ by the Local Council Officer/Animal Control Officer.
Lifeguards should refer to the Local Operations Manual for more information.