For some time I have been relaxed about allowing pups off leash in uncrowded public spaces. But lately I've questioned this view and last week I did a volte-face: dogs must be kept on leash in all parks and beaches, with the exception, of course, of designated off-leash areas.

The trigger was a random attack by a Rhodesian ridgeback on a spur-winged plover. The dog moved so fast that the normally nimble and alert plover didn't stand a chance: chomp, chomp, it was fatally injured.

This was bad enough but the attack occurred five metres from a family of ground-dwelling bush stone curlews.

These engaging birds have a striking resemblance to Road Runner but are not quite as lucky as the resourceful cartoon character when it comes to eluding attacks.

In Australia, Coyote morphs into Foxy Loxy or Digger Dog and our shy curlews are no match.

They are nocturnal animals, but during the day they shelter in tall grass and low shrubs, relying on their cryptic plumage to keep them safe from predators.

They thrive along the north coast of Queensland but sightings in NSW are rare. Thus, when they do appear, people generally become protective of them - signs are erected warning walkers to keep their distance and dog owners are urged to keep dogs on leads.

But not everyone is so respectful. In the incident above, we spotted the dog some distance away, dashing into the scrubby zone between beach and park, obviously on the hunt, with the owner trailing behind carrying his lead.

We watched appalled as he veered towards the curlews, only to be distracted by the plover, swooping like lightning on his prey.

We grabbed the dog by the collar and dragged him to the owner. A few choice words were exchanged as the lead was clipped and the dog hustled away.

I love seeing dogs running free, exercising, having fun, but I have come to the view this should only occur in green zone off-leash areas.

In all other public spaces, dogs should be clipped and controlled. Not only do vulnerable animals need protecting but people should also feel safe when enjoying the great outdoors.

After witnessing one extremely nasty attack by a mastiff on our mini-foxie - mastiff on the loose, mini foxie on a lead - I am now very nervous when unrestrained and unfamiliar dogs approach us.

More recently, husband Garry was out walking when a dalmatian came lolloping towards him. Garry halted as the owner called out: "He's OK, mate, real friendly, give him a pat."

Garry proffered his hand, the dog jumped up and sank his teeth into his upper arm.

No-one should have to endure an unprovoked attack when out for a quiet stroll around town.

At the same time, off-leash areas where dogs and owners can play and socialise are essential.

Anyone entering these spaces understands dogs will be running free and certain standards of behaviour are expected. It's an unspoken pact and rarely is there an incident.

Now Wollongong City Council's wants to curtail these areas and the doggy community is up in arms.

If council succeeds, there will simply be more owners pushing the boundaries, slipping leads in parks and on beaches and creating mayhem.

Inevitably, random attacks on people, pets and our vulnerable wildlife will increase and create further divisions in the community.

Keep the existing off-leash zones, but step up ranger patrols elsewhere and enforce compliance.

Bring it on: clip and control or pay a hefty toll.