A PETITION has been launched to keep dogs on the beach at Chouet. Kenieta Domaille already has more than 100 signatures showing support for Environment’s stance in the face of a ban plea by beachgoers.

Mrs Domaille, who has a seven-year-old springer spaniel, Rob, wanted to assure the department, which is responsible for the beaches, that it had made the correct choice.

‘They’ve made the right decision this year, but people are

trying to get a ban in place for next summer and if dog owners don’t voice their opinion or show how important it is to keep certain beaches open, our pets may lose out forever,’ said Mrs Domaille, 23.

She said it was important for the department to know it had the backing of dog owners across the island. ‘I believe the petition will be effective in persuading Environment to keep Chouet beach open to dogs next summer.

‘Owners I have talked to are really concerned about this and just want the opportunity to show they do care and to thank the Environment Department for making the right decision not to close the beach to our animals this summer,’ said the insurance administrator.

Mrs Domaille has supplied copies of the petition to veterinary clinics and pet stores across the island.

‘I can understand some people’s concerns. Beach users don’t always like dogs coming over and pestering them, but the majority of owners are very responsible and don’t allow that to happen.

‘Dogs need exercise and are already banned from seven of the island’s beaches, which we accept and understand, but when it’s a hot day and the dogs need exercise, a swim in the sea is the perfect solution.

‘It would be horrendous if dogs had to stay off all beaches for the entire summer.’

Environment minister David De Lisle said: ‘The Environment Department is aware that Mrs Domaille is organising a petition and will receive this in due course.

‘As in all aspects of the management of the island’s natural environment and issues concerning its enjoyment, the public are of course able to present their views, either by letter or petition, for consideration by the Environment Department.’

The legislation under which dogs are excluded from some beaches is The Control of Dogs Ordinance, 1992, which extends to seven between 1 May and 30 September.

The voluntary ban at the Richmond end of Vazon, which was introduced to protect wading birds, will run until 1 May 2008.

* The petition is available at Vets4Pets, Northside Veterinary Clinic, Les Eturs Veterinary Clinic, the GSPCA Animal Shelter, Animal Aid, Trim Dog Pet Centre, St Martin’s Garden and Pet Centre, Puffins Pet Centre, Isabelle Vets, Chouet Tea Rooms and Chouet Kiosk.

* From 1 May to 30 September, dogs are not allowed on Fermain, Petit Bot, L’Eree, Vazon (north), Cobo, L’Ancresse/Pembroke or Port Soif.