Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Tuesday, 3 January, 2017. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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 order highlights dog owner responsibilities

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

The court ordered the owner of the aggressive dog to pay costs totalling $29,683. The Magistrate also disqualified the dog owner from owning, being in charge of or being in control of a dog for three years and ordered that the aggressive dog be destroyed.

Greater Shepparton City Council Acting CEO, Chris Teitzel, said “the Court sentence 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.”

“Dogs that are too strong or aggressive and cannot be effectively controlled by their owners are at greater risk of causing an attack. This dog owner chose to own an aggressive large dog that she could not effectively control.”

“Council will act to protect our community from dangerous dogs by enforcing the Domestic Animals Act when necessary,” said Mr Teitzel.

Greater Shepparton City Council Manager Citizens Services Laurienne Winbanks said responsible dog ownership starts at home. “A dog of any size or breed can become aggressive. Council urges all dog owners to consider their dogs’ behaviour and ensure that the dog can be effectively controlled and securely confined to the property,” said Ms Winbanks. “This means the dog’s yard must have a closed gate and an escape-proof fence that the dog cannot jump, get under or through.”

“Visitors must have safe access to your front door, without being stopped or attacked by a dog. Ideally, dog should be kept in the backyard, so visitors cannot enter the dogs’ yard without the dog owner’s permission,” she said.

Dog owners are also required to register their dog each year with Council.

“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.