Doggy Do’s – Best places in the ‘Gong to go for a walk
Did you know that Wollongong has some of the best dog-friendly beaches and parks in the whole world?
It’s a big claim but one we can back up by turning to our four-legged correspondents to share their thoughts on the best places to go for a walk. Here’s what they had to bark… say.
Meet Vinnie!
Image: Coniston Beach
Vinnie has fallen in love with Coniston Beach. Being a sausage dog, means that it’s a struggle not to get sand all over his nose and belly. But that’s ok because he’s been learning how to swim. He hasn’t quite gotten the hang of the waves yet, but he reckons he’ll give it another go.
Image: Vinnie is a fan of digging!
*Our tip – dogs are allowed off-leash at any time in green zone beaches and parks. See here for the full list.
Meet Bowie!
Image: Thirroul Beach is an orange-zoned beach
Bowie told us that it took some wrangling to get the perfect selfie at Thirroul's orange-zoned beach. She's wearing her favourite lead (it's a requirement for dogs visiting orange-zoned areas) and she says it makes her look amazing.
*Our tip – Dogs are allowed on orange-zoned beaches like this one before 9am and after 4pm during winter. See here for the full list of orange-zoned beaches.
Meet Carlos!
Image: Southern end of Fairy Meadow Beach
Carlos reckons he’s got what it takes to be a model and has posing for the camera down to an art. He’s a regular at Fairy Meadow Beach and is a pro at chasing a ball or a stick for as long as his owner is willing to play with him.
*Our tip – Don’t forget to bring your lead even when you’re visiting a green zone beach or dog park. Dogs need to stay on leash when travelling to and from off-leash area.
Meet Zelda!
Image: Figtree Oval, Dog Park
Zelda is a bit of a free spirit and loves spending time in nature. She also reckons that the Figtree Oval Dog Park is the best place to make friends.
*Our tip – Make sure your dog is fully vaccinated before visiting a dog park. They’re bound to meet loads of other friendly dogs, and this will help keep them safe from diseases.
Meet Kobe!
Image: Coniston Beach
Kobe describes himself as an energetic goofball and part-time food thief. His favourite thing to do is digging in the sand and rounding the day with a spot of zoomies. His owner always brings doggy bags when they go on a walk to save Kobe from any embarrassment when nature calls.
*Our tip – Don’t forget to bring your doggy poo bags with you when you leave the house. Put used bags in the bins provided and if you can’t find a bin, take it with you.
Meet Ruby!
Image: MM Beach, Port Kembla
Ruby says that the very best thing to do at the beach is to catch a ball. The second best is to run away every time your owner asks you to drop the ball. After a trip to the beach, Ruby says she always treats herself to a nap on the couch.
Image: After a long day of barking, Ruby is taking a well deserved rest.
*Our tip – Some dog beaches are next to rock platforms. Dogs are never allowed on rock platforms. This is to protect your dog and the native sea and bird life.
Meet ...
Image: Austinmer is a red-zoned beach
All of the dogs we spoke to are very well behaved and know that they’re not allowed at red zoned beaches. There are signs at all of our beaches that let you know whether you can or can’t bring your dog to the beach.
*Our tip – Dogs are not allowed in red zones at any time. To save yourself a disappointing trip, always check our website beforehand or check the signs at each beach for more details.
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