The city council has earmarked three potential sites for an enclosed dog park and has asked members of the public to vote.

Residents have three weeks to vote on whether the park should be located at the Harris Street Reserve, the old BMX track on Queens Road or Victoria Park off Koroit Street.

Warrnambool mayor Robert Anderson encouraged dog owners to assess each site. “While Warrnambool already has 25 designated off-lead areas, enclosed dog parks are set aside exclusively for dogs and their owners,” Councillor Anderson said.

“They provide a space for dogs to socialise and exercise without the risk of impacting on the enjoyment of other park users.”

However, members of the Warrnambool Dog Training School, which operates from the Harris Street Reserve, have hit out at the inclusion of their facility as an option.

Donna James, president of the school, said she found out about the proposal when she saw an area roped off at the reserve. “It’s not fair – council didn’t talk to us and the dog park would take up two thirds of the Harris Street Reserve,” Ms James said.

“For over 30 years the club has provided quality and cost-effective dog training in Victoria’s south-west community and promoted responsible pet ownership and connectedness in the community.”

Ms James said the club paid an annual maintenance fee and had built and paid for its own clubrooms. “The council has not put one cent into our club.

“Our volunteers have put in thousands and thousands of hours over 30 years and we get treated like rubbish.”

Ms James urged councillors to address members of the dog training school about the proposal.

Councillors Anderson and Sue Cassidy agreed to this request.

“It’s out for public consultation and we want feedback,” Cr Anderson said.

Cr Cassidy said the dog park would have play equipment for dogs, trees for shelter and water available for dogs.

Visit www.yoursaywarrnambool.com.au to provide your feedback.