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This article was published on Thursday, 11 August, 2016. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Court conviction highlights dog owner responsibilities

The resident was found guilty, with conviction, in the Shepparton Magistrate’s Court of seven charges relating to their dog wandering the streets and attacking other dogs, causing serious injuries. The owner was also found guilty for failing to register the dog with Council.

The court fined the owner of the aggressive dog $5000 with other costs including compensation to the victim totalling $13,524. The Magistrate also disqualified the dog owner from owning, being in charge or being in control of a dog for five years and ordered that the aggressive dog be destroyed.

Greater Shepparton City Council Manager Citizens Services, Laurienne Winbanks, said the court conviction sends a clear message to dog owners that Council will not ignore the safety of the community and will prosecute dog owners who fail to adhere to the Domestic Animals Act.

“Council officers had previously tried a consultative compliance approach with this dog owner yet he continued to ignore requests to register his animal and to keep the dog under control. Unfortunately it has resulted in several serious dog attacks,” she said.

“Council has now taken a more hard line approach. We will act to protect our community from dangerous dogs by enforcing the Domestic Animals Act when necessary,” said Ms Winbanks.

Responsible dog ownership starts at home. Dog owners are required to keep their dogs confined to their properties and to register their dog each year with Council. Dogs that are left to wander the streets by their owners are at greater risk of causing an attack. Any dog found wandering the streets may be impounded by Council and the owner issued with an infringement notice.

“Council urges any member of the community who are involved in a dog attack to contact Council for assistance. Council operates a 24 hour emergency service to respond to investigate and take legal action when required to ensure the dog owners comply with their legal requirements.” said Ms Winbanks.

CLICK HERE for more information on responsible pet ownership.