Where can I take my dog?

With the exception of Murrindindi Scenic Reserve (east of Buxton) and Steavenson Falls Reserve (near Marysville), you may bring your dog into Victorian state forests, provided they are under your control at all times.

Control your dog

While you are enjoying the outdoors with your dog, remember you are sharing the forest with many others so please ensure you:

  • Keep your dog on a leash, chain or cord and under your control at all times – for the protection of other visitors, wildlife and your dog.
  • Don’t allow your dog to disturb others or to harass or injury wildlife (penalties apply).

Potential hazards

Your dog will enjoy an outing in a state forest but you need to be aware that forests do contain some hazards for dogs, including snakes and ticks.

The following may reduce the risk from these hazards (Note – this information is not comprehensive and your veterinarian is your best source of information on potential hazards and treatments)

  • When in state forests please keep your dog on a lead and avoid long grassy areas
  • Apply appropriate tick control products for dogs and do a thorough search of your dog's skin and coat daily when in forest areas, even if tick control products have been applied. It’s best to use your fingertips to feel through the animal’s coat. Ticks or tick craters can be felt as lumps on the skin surface.
  • If a tick is found, it should be removed immediately. When removing a tick, avoid disturbing its body (don’t squeeze the body). Aim to remove the tick by its head at the point of insertion into the pet’s skin. If parts of the tick remain in your pet, they are likely to cause a local infection. A useful aid is a tick remover - a fork like device that slides either side of the tick without touching its body. This removes the tick easily. After removal, dab the area with mild antiseptic, keep your pet calm and take your animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Being aware of the symptoms of snake bike and tick paralysis. Both are serious and potentially fatal for your dog and require urgent veterinary attention. Symptoms may include the loss of coordination/collapse, vomiting, and paralysis.