Owner of attacking dog fined $6k

The man pleaded guilty to a charge each of Dog Attack Causing Injury and Dog Not Held or Tethered in reference to an attack on a kelpie on 6 February in Spearwood. He was fined $2,500.

He also pleaded guilty to the same charges for his dog’s attack on a greyhound on 13 March. The dog later died of its injuries. He was fined $3,500.

By mutual agreement, the owner did not oppose the City’s request for a remitted destruction order.

“The remitted order means the owner can continue to keep his dog, but if it is involved in another attack or not held in accordance with the dangerous dog containment requirements, the City can seize and euthanise the dog at any time,” Michael Emery, City of Cockburn Rangers & Community Safety Manager said.

Mr Emery said the City took all reports of dog attack seriously.

“The City responds to and investigates with priority all dog attack reports, with the oversight of the City’s Ranger Service management.

“Dog attacks within the City are commonly reported, but incidents of this level of severity are uncommon.

“The City encourages dog owners to care for their pets responsibly. It regularly holds free six-week dog training courses for owners and their dogs, including basic, intermediate and aggressive/reactive dog training. This training is designed to help provide dog owners with responsible pet ownership skills.”

The City is currently holding an Aggressive and Reactive Dog Training course. 

In 2019, the City held nine courses, where over 90 dog owners took advantage of the City’s initiative. The 2020 courses were impacted by COVID-19, and more are planned for 2021 and will be promoted in coming months.

The City provides a range of on and off leash areas and enclosed dog parks including those with agility equipment for owners to spend time building a bond with their dog, and enabling their dog to socialise with others while under supervision.