September 25, 2026
Coffs needs a special-needs dog beach

Coffs needs a special-needs dog beach

DEAR News Of The Area,

OUR local off-leash dog beaches are fantastic spaces for high-energy dogs to run and play.

However, growing tension on the sand suggests it’s time for a new approach.

Regularly, owners of elderly, disabled, or post-surgery dogs use these off-leash zones for gentle exercise.

This creates an impossible clash. An enthusiastic puppy wanting to play can easily terrify a deaf or blind dog, or risk re-injuring a pet recovering from a major operation.

The current situation isn’t fair to anyone.

Owners of social dogs are scolded for letting their pets play, while owners of vulnerable pets are forced to break local bylaws and walk on dog-prohibited beaches just to find a quiet space.

The solution is a dedicated “Special Needs Dog Beach”.

By creating a separate, low-stimulus zone specifically for dogs that need to be left alone, we can protect vulnerable pets, keep our prohibited beaches dog-free, and let our social pups play without the drama.

Regards,

Brendan Walsh,

Sandy Beach.

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