Court outcome highlights dog owner responsibilities

The incident saw a 50kg American Bulldog let off leash in Mooroopna for a swim, where it subsequently attacked a small Cavoodle dog that was walking on a leash with its owner. The owner of the American Bulldog pleaded guilty in the Shepparton Magistrates Court to multiple charges including dog attack causing serious injury and dog wandering at large or not securely confined, and was later sentenced to a two-year good behaviour bond and ordered to pay $9,751.25.

This incident is one of many similar examples of dog attacks which have occurred over the past 12 months in Greater Shepparton. While dog attacks happen for a number of reasons, they most commonly occur because dogs are walked off lead or are not contained to their homes. Dog attacks can cause injuries to both people and other animals, causing distress to both the victims and the owners of the dogs.

Greater Shepparton City Council’s Manager Environment, Sharon Terry, said it was the dog owner’s responsibility to make choices on how to care for their dogs. Irresponsible choices such as allowing their dogs to wander, have insecure fencing or run off leash can result in a dog attack.

“Council continue to take all steps available to ensure community safety, including prosecuting those who fail to adhere to the Domestic Animals Act 1994, when a dog attack occurs. It is important that community members are aware of the costs associated with a prosecution like this,” she said.

“The costs to the dog owner are substantial. The dogs are impounded until the outcome of the prosecution is known and the costs awarded can be very high depending on the circumstances. If the dog owner is found guilty, the dog could be euthanised or declared a dangerous or menacing dog.

“If a declared dog attacks a person, endangering their life or causing death, the owner may be charged under the Crimes Act and face possible imprisonment of up to 10 years jail.”

Ms Terry said the main take away from this court outcome is what residents can do to ensure they do not find themselves in a similar situation

“The easiest way to ensure your dog is not involved in an incident like this is to register your dog, keep it secure inside your home or yard, and to always make sure you have it on a leash in public areas,” she said.

“Everyone has a role to play in ensuring their dogs and our community remain safe and protected at all times.”

Anyone who is involved in, or witnesses, a dog attack is urged to immediately report the incident to Council’s Animal Management team by phoning Council on 5832 9700. 

Visit Council's responsible pet ownership webpage for more information.