FLIP THROUGH THE GALLERY ABOVE for links to places as close as possible to Wollongong where you can safely and legally take your dog on a bushwalking adventure.
In the Illawarra, most people know which beaches you can walk your dog on, but what about the days when you want your dog to join you in the wild?
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Did you know? It is illegal for dogs to be in national parks, nature reserves or state conservation areas. So to be clear, that is basically the entire escarpment around Wollongong. The fine for bringing your dog along is $300.
So what’s the big deal taking our dogs into the bush? By leaving their scents behind and being in the general vicinity of native animals and their habitats, dogs can cause significant stress to wildlife. In some cases, the scents can cause animal families to leave their homes. Worse, dogs can kill the wildlife (just think dog vs ground-dwelling birds and reptiles).
That means: no more photos of dogs in our national parks. Not cool at all. (Trained Assistance Dogs are the exception.)
So how do we do the right thing and still let Fido enjoy some bushwalking? Very simple. We are fortunate that in NSW, state forests and regional parks allow for dogs. These areas are generally are mix between plantation forests and natural bush, which keeps it interesting with plenty of trees to sniff.
Some include water elements such as ponds and creeks, while other areas are absolutely massive and allow for a good run around. Furthermore, a few of these places also have free camp grounds, so just think: an afternoon walk with the dog, collecting kindling and kicking back under the stars with a fire … sounds good, right?!
Tips to keep you and your dog safe:
- Food and water: You always pack refreshments for yourself, so make sure you think about your dog too. Water is especially critical – all that running and sniffing will make them very thirsty.
- First aid: if you are planning on entering some of the more remote areas, don’t forget a medical kit. Most items can also be used on your dog if they get a laceration, sprain etc.
- Keep your dog under control: no one wants their dog lost in a massive forest. On that, ensure you pack maps and let people know where you’re going. State forests, in particular plantation forests, are very easy to get lost in. Think rows and rows of pine trees that all look the same, while dense forest makes it difficult to see the sun for direction.
The same general courtesy rules applies to dog-friendly bush as it does on dog beaches and parks. So have a think about others and remember these tips:
- Clean up after your dog. Be prepared by bringing your own poo-bags.
- Be in control of your dog, either by leash or command.
- Do not bring dogs with contagious disease, skin irritation or parasitic infection into public areas.
- Remember that the owner of the dog is legally responsible if their dog attacks another person or animal.
For more information on bushwalking in the Illawarra, visit Bushwalk the Gong on Facebook or Instagram @bushwalkthegong.