Dog owners asked to own up to responsible pet ownership

Council’s ranger services team would like to remind dog owners of the rules of responsible pet ownership after two Queensland meter readers were seriously injured by dogs on the loose.

Ranger Services Coordinator Brett Keys said the news felt a little too close to home.

‘Every day our team works towards spreading the message of responsible pet ownership and stamping out dangerous and menacing dog incidents,’ he said.

‘Reading about the two Queensland meter readers injured earlier this year is a reminder that people still aren’t following the rules and putting others in danger.

‘We don’t want to see that happen here in the Central Highlands.’

Mr Keys said dog owners must take reasonable steps to ensure that a dog doesn’t attack or cause fear in people.

‘Some people like electricity and water meter readers are at higher risk, simply because they go into yards as part of their day job,’ Mr Keys said.

‘If one of those workers gets injured by your dog, you may face significant fines, not to mention the ongoing financial, physical and psychological cost to the injured person.’

Mr Keys said while it may not always be straight forward, most companies offer solutions for people to read their own meters or sign up for alerts.

‘Owning a dog is rewarding, it may be the best friend you’ve ever had and your most loyal companion, but it takes work and responsibility – as the owner, you have to own up to it.’

Mr Keys shares his top five tips for responsible pet ownership.

Further resources

How to provide safe entry to premises – Ergon Energy

Guide to owning a pet in the Central Highlands

Australia Post’s dog safety campaign

Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008