The campaign follows research showing dog attacks are a leading cause of platypus deaths in Victoria.
Last year, Healesville Sanctuary's wildlife hospital received six platypuses after dog attacks — four did not survive.
Melbourne Water area lead community programs Leesa Riley said the threat went beyond direct attacks.
“Platypuses are usually most active at dawn and dusk, coinciding with when many people are out and about taking their dog for a walk,” Ms Riley said.
“We’re particularly concerned that repeated disturbances from dogs — whether they’re off-leash or not properly controlled — can disrupt crucial behaviours like feeding, resting and breeding.”
Healesville Sanctuary platypus specialist Jessica Thomas said keeping dogs on a lead near water was one of the most effective ways the community could protect the species.
“Dogs can move fast in the shallows and, all too often, may injure or kill a platypus before their owner even realises,” Dr Thomas said.
Ms Riley added that leashing dogs near waterways also protected pets from fast-moving water, hidden hazards and unexpected encounters with wildlife.
Three ways you can ‘Take the Lead’ for platypus:
1. Leash your dog around waterways.
2. Choose dog-friendly walking routes when visiting waterways. Check out Parks Victoria’s A-Z guide for dog-friendly walking trails.
3. Visit platypusspot.org to learn where platypuses live and share your platypus sightings.
