Attacks

A dog attack can take many forms, from a person or animal being chased and growled at, to a physical contact resulting in the death of an animal or serious injury to a person. All attacks should be reported to Ranger Services, regardless of the severity of the attack. All complaints are confidential. A dog that has shown the propensity to attack may be declared as a Dangerous Dog and be subject to additional control requirements e.g. muzzled in public.

Barking

Neighbours are encouraged to speak to dog owners if they are concerned about excessive barking. If the barking continues to be unreasonable after speaking to the owners residents are encouraged to contact ranger services. A ranger will then liaise with the dog owner and provide suggestions on how the barking may be reduced. Rangers are currently limited in their powers in relation to dog barking and do not have the authority to remove a dog from it's residence.

Dog Excreta

Dog owners are responsible for picking up after their dogs, they are encouraged to provide their own poo bags and not be reliant on those in parks, as they are often stolen/misused. Failure to pick up after your dog in public may result in a $100 fine.

Dog Stray

Rangers receive thousands of calls about stray dogs each year, resulting in a number of impoundments a year. This could easily be avoided if all fences and gates were secure, and all dogs wearing ID.

Dog Wander

Dogs must be held by a leash in all public places, unless in an approved Dog Exercise Area as listed below.