Canine lobby

The group meets at the Edward River Oval, with Mrs Huddle providing toys, water bowls and dog waste bags.

But she said activities were limited due to a lack of proper fencing and other facilities.

She said a ‘‘proper’’ dog park needs to be available in town, and has launched a petition to garner support.

‘‘We’re very thankful the council allows us to use the Edward River Oval, but we don’t even have access to the toilets there,’’ she said.

‘‘There are also safety concerns with the oval being so close to the bridge and the speed that some cars fly down the (adjacent) dirt road. With no proper fencing around the oval, it is hazardous.

‘‘I believe a dog park would be great not only for local dog owners but also for tourists.

‘‘I met a couple at Willoughby’s Beach who were visitors and I was asked if the town had a dog park.

‘‘I’ve been to other areas that have dog parks and they’re always busy. They are perfect for taking your dog out for a run with secure fencing, poo bags available and plenty of grass area for them to run around.

‘‘If we do get a dog park I would love to see all these things, as well as a tunnel or other equipment suited for dogs to play on.’’

Mrs Huddle said the formation of a social dog lovers’ group — which meets every Wednesday evening — has been the ideal impetus for the campaign.

She said the group was originally formed to help her dog ‘Leah’ get over the loss of her other dog ‘Milo’.

‘‘They (Leah and Milo) used to play a lot and loved each other’s company,’’ Mrs Huddle said.

‘‘Leah was a bit lost without her mate being around, and I thought this would be great for her to play and socialise with others.

‘‘When I lived in the Northern Territory they had dog groups in Palmerston and Alice Springs that I joined, and it was a really good social group.

‘‘Since the group has started here in Deni we’ve had over 10 dogs consistently each week.’’

Mrs Huddle said the group is also about sharing information, and last week it was addressed by local vet Dr Lauren Kelly.

To sign Mrs Huddle’s petition, go to https://secure.avaaz.org/en/community—petitions/Angelina—Huddle—A—local—dog—park/.