THERE was a slight increase in the number of reported dog attacks on people in the Gannawarra Shire last year.
Council noted the annual review of the Domestic Animal Management Plan and the activities that have occurred in the past 12 months at its May ordinary council meeting.
The plan addresses responsible pet ownership and animal welfare by focussing on registration, identification, dog attacks, nuisance behaviour, dangerous, menacing, and restricted breed dogs, and animal businesses.
There was an increase in registered domestic animals by approximately 10 per cent in 2021 (2584 in 2021 versus 2306 in 2020).
There was a significant increase in domestic animals at large during 2021 (232 in 2021 versus 154 in 2020), however there was a reduction in the number of domestic animal noise/nuisance complaints (57 in 2021 versus 73 in 2020). The report said this may be due to more residents being at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
There was an increase in impounded cats in 2021, including 96 wild cats.
There was a decrease in the number of reported dog attacks on animals in 2021 (eight versus 10 in 2020), however there was a slight increase in dog attacks on people (six in 2021).
Meanwhile, 100 per cent of the dogs available for re-housing were re-homed during 2021.
Cr Travis Collier said it served as a reminder for where you can and can’t take your dogs throughout the shire.
“That includes taking your cat to the swimming pool, Mr Mayor. I wasn’t aware you weren’t allowed to do that,” he said.
Cr Burt said he was pleased 34 dogs available for re-housing had been re-housed.
“Years ago they used to get a visit from a vet and never to be seen again, but that is a good story there.”
