By JONATHON HOWARD
NOOSA Council is pleading with dog owners to take responsibility of their pets following a spate of dog attacks this year.
Council records reveal there have been 52 dog attacks this year, with 15 of those attacks on people and 37 attacks on other animals.
Noosa Council has no previous dog attack data to compare with as this was the first year since de-amalgamation from the Sunshine Coast Council – and no previous data was supplied to the council.
The council disaster management and public order team leader Phil Amson said no dog attack was acceptable.
“Council will continue to highlight the need for members of the public to report aggressive behaviour by dogs,” Mr Amson said.
“This is a matter that council views very seriously and the community should expect to be able to enjoy our wonderful outdoor areas without fear from aggressive dogs,” he said.
Mr Amson said all reported dog attacks were investigated by council officers and various outcomes were reached once an investigation into an attack was complete.
“These may include dangerous or menacing declarations of the offending dogs, infringement notices or in worst case scenarios, prosecution,” he said.
What action can council take in response to a dangerous domestic animal?
Apart from those actions previously mentioned, council officers have power under the provision Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 to impound an aggressive animal in the interest of public safety.
Officers may also declare dogs involved in attacks as regulated dogs, either dangerous or menacing.
There are significant restrictions placed on declared dogs including higher registration fees, de-sexing and micro-chipping requirements and strict regulations for the owners to comply with regarding the keeping those dogs (eg fencing/enclosure).
These restrictions are inspected yearly to ensure continued compliance.
To find out more or to report an animal attack, phone Noosa Council on (07) 5329 6500.
Give us your thoughts: Do you know of a aggressive dog? Email newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au
