How to keep your pets safe

Published on 04 August 2026

Residents are being reminded to keep dogs on a lead and away from sick or dead birds following the detection of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Portland area.

While the risk to the general public remains low, dogs can become exposed if they come into contact with infected wild birds or their droppings. Responsible pet ownership can help reduce this risk and protect both pets and local wildlife.

Pet owners are encouraged to:

• Keep dogs on a lead when walking in parks, along beaches and near waterways.
• Prevent dogs from approaching, picking up or eating sick or dead birds.
• Avoid areas where large numbers of wild birds are congregating.
• Wash your hands after handling pets or visiting areas frequented by birds.
• Contact your veterinarian if your dog becomes unwell after contact with wild birds.

What to do if you see sick or dead wildlife:

AVOID

• Contact with sick or dead birds, wildlife or their environment.

RECORD

• What you see.
• The location.
• Photos or videos if it is safe to do so.

REPORT

• Clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species.
• A single sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird, bird of prey or marine mammal such as a seal, sea lion or dolphin.

Reports can be made through the Agriculture Victoria website or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888

Keeping dogs under effective control is not only a legal responsibility but also helps protect native wildlife and reduces the spread of disease.