Strathbogie Shire Council reminds dog owners of zero-tolerance approach to dogs off lead

By Georgia Tacey

Apr 18, 2023

Zero tolerance: Seven dog attacks have been reported in the Strathbogie Shire in recent weeks. Photo by Megan Fisher

Strathbogie Shire Council is reminding dog owners that there is zero-tolerance for off-leash or unrestrained dogs.

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This comes after seven reported dog attacks in the area in the past few weeks.

Strathbogie Shire Mayor Laura Binks said the attacks had resulted in serious injuries to those involved.

“These attacks have taken place in both residential and farming areas within Strathbogie Shire,” she said.

“As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure your dog is properly secured — when you’re out in public you must have your dog on a leash and when your dog is at home, it must be contained so there is no chance it can escape.”

Cr Binks also wants to remind dog owners that this is also a requirement under section 45 of the Domestic Animals Act, and that compliance officers will be enforcing the act.

“Our compliance officers have been out and about ensuring our community are doing the right thing,” she said.

“We know so many people in our community do the right thing and we need to ensure they are safe when doing so.”

Dog owners could be fined or prosecuted for not complying with the act, with Cr Binks explaining that if a dog attacks, it will be seized and the owner will be prosecuted.

“These laws are in place to ensure the safety of all,” she said.