Dog owners are being urged to increase their vigilance after a large number of incidents around the municipality recently.
In the last three months, Swan Hill Rural City Council has received 8 reports of dog attacks on livestock, people and pets.
Swan Hill Rural City Council Director Development and Planning Heather Green said it was disappointing to see incidents occurring.
“Owners must demonstrate responsible pet ownership at all times- it includes knowing where your dog is and undertaking training to ensure you can control your dog,” she said.
Dogs must be under their owners control at all times – and when in a public area on a lead unless within the designated off leash dog park.
Ms Green said it is in the best interests of everyone involved – farmers, dog owners and the general community – to make sure dogs are securely confined to their property at all times.
“Under the Victorian Domestic Animals Act, 1994, the owner of any animals kept for farming purposes may destroy dogs that enter the property where the livestock is kept.”
“If a dog is involved in any sort of attack, owners can be prosecuted in court and can face fines of up to $6,000 in addition to compensation for loss of stock.”
“Depending on the severity of an attack, dogs may also be placed onto the dangerous dogs register, which dictates how the dog must be housed, and in some cases the dog may be required to be euthanised,” she added.
Ms Green said it was also important to ensure pets were registered and microchipped, to help with identification and then returned to you if they have escaped your home and found wandering.
If you witness or are involved in a dog attack, please report it to Council immediately on 5036 2346.
