Wildlife-wise WALKIES

Lead by example when it comes to responsibly exercising your canine - it's the leash you can do for our precious native species

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Did you know that unmanaged dogs pose a significant threat to native wildlife, especially on the coast - even if they're only playing? Most of us know the joy of dogs comes with responsibilities. However, slightly less understood is the fact that our precious pups (usually unintentionally) threaten wildlife. And it's at the beach, a perennial favourite for walking our pets, that the threat of unmanaged dogs is most pronounced.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has just launched the initiative Lead the Way, encouraging New Zealanders to become wildlife-wise to help protect native species on the beach, as well as other beachgoers and their dogs.

"Lead the Way is about building on dog owners' compassion, existing care and and empowering them with information that helps keep New Zealand's native coastal wildlife safe, while encouraging them to share the message wider," explains DOC Science Advisor Dr Laura Boren.

DOGGIE DANGERS

Dogs are naturally curious, so their instincts often compel them to investigate, chase, and potentially kill mammals and birds.