Your dog, your responsibility. That is the simple message that Tweed Shire Council (TSC) rangers are trying to get through to dog owners.
This follows an attack over the weekend that led to the death of a small dog.
‘In the latest attack investigated by rangers over the weekend, a small dog was attacked and killed by two dogs at Tweed Heads. The attacking dogs have since been surrendered to Council,’ said a TSC spokesperson.
A total of 119 incidents were reported to Tweed Council in 2022 and in the first four months of this year, 16 dog attacks have been investigated by Council rangers.
Council’s Team Leader, ranger Kristian Pakula said the continuing number of dog attacks was worrying, not just as it impacts the safety of the local community but because it shows people are not getting the message.
‘Dog owners need to ensure their animals are always under effective control,’ Mr Pakula said.
‘Residents and visitors to the Tweed need to understand the importance of keeping their dogs on leads at all times, unless in a designated off-leash area.
Owner liable
‘Council is urging residents to understand that under NSW legislation, the owner or person in control of a dog is liable for the actions of that dog. This includes where a dog rushes at, attacks, harasses or chases any person or animal, as well as liability for any resulting injury to a person or damage to property.
‘In addition, your dog may be declared menacing or dangerous, requiring it to be muzzled and wear an identifying dangerous dog collar while in public, and kept within a specific enclosure while at home.
‘Our rangers will continue to remain extra vigilant to ensure dogs are on leash, so please do the right thing or face a fine.’
The Companion Animals Act requires that dogs in a public place must be under the effective control of a competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and held by (or secured to) the person.
The fine currently applicable for the offence of a dog not being under the effective control of a competent person is $330. Failing to take all reasonable precautions to prevent a dog from escaping from the property on which it is being kept is also an offence.
If you are ever in immediate danger from an aggressive animal, call the police on Triple 0. If you are the victim of a dog attack, please report it to Council immediately on 6670 2400. By not reporting it at the time, you may be putting the community at risk.
For more information on dangerous dogs, visit dangerous and restricted dogs on Council’s webpage.
If you are concerned about your animal’s behaviour, speak to your vet or an animal behaviour specialist.
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