DOG ATTACK ON THE INCREASE IN WAITAKI This is not good news. Can someone please explain to me — a dog lover — why it is that people deliberately want to own dogs like pitbulls, that have a reputation for being dangerous? Is it an image thing? Is it the thrill of owning something that is potentially dangerous? Is it because they want to look tough? I know that the standard answer to these questions is dont blame the dog, blame the owner, but the fact is that there are certain breeds of dogs that are involved in attacks more often than others. As a journalist, I can remember covering the controversy in the eighties when the first American Pitbulls started to arrive in New Zealand and there were strong bids then to ban the imports — but somehow that bid was lost. Earlier this year, I trialled a staffy pup. She was a lovely little dog, but she was just going to be too difficult. Anyway, here is the press release from the council Dog attacks on the rise in Waitaki There are serious concerns about the increasing number of dog attacks in the Waitaki district. WDC Regulatory Services Manager Lichelle Guyan, says there has been four dog attacks on people in November alone, with each of those attacks made by pitbull-type breeds. So far this year, there have been 17 reported dog attacks compared to 13 attacks in the previous year. “We have a staggering number of wandering, lost and found dogs reported with 344 in the past five months,” says Mrs Guyan. “This is 71 more complaints than the same time last year and Council is very concerned with this growing trend.” “With the holiday season approaching and the warmer evenings there are more people out walking and enjoying the weather, therefore, we want to ensure our streets and neighbourhoods are safe places for everyone.” Dog owners are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure their dogs are well cared for, have water on hand, get regular exercise and are not able to leave the confines of their property without their owners. A dog must be under control at all times, even on their own property. The new Dog Control Policy and Bylaw came into force on 3 November 2014 and Council staff will be developing educational material to help dog owners understand their responsibilities. There are heavy penalties involved should a dog attack occur, including the dog being euthanized. When a dog attack is reported Council will investigate thoroughly, including interviewing any witnesses and an infringement notice will be issued. In particular instances the dog may be classified as ‘Dangerous’ which incurs a higher registration fee. The dog will also be required to be neutered and a muzzle worn when in public. “We urge people who see a wandering dog to report it to Council (Dog Control) which is available at any time on 433 0300. If possible a photo and date would be helpful for our investigation. We recommend, however, that people do not approach wandering dogs as their behaviour can be unpredictable.” “We want dog owners to take good care of their pets, ensure they are on a lead, have a suitable receptacle to clean up any dog excrement and are well behaved to keep our community safe.” “The majority of dog owners take these responsibilities very seriously, however, we have a growing problem and we need some dog owners to step up and take responsibility for the behaviour of their dogs.” For further information about dog control and to view the full Dog Control Bylaw go to waitaki.govt.nz.
Posted on: Thu, 18 Dec 2014 06:50:17 +0000
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