PET owners are being urged to adhere to laws relating to responsible pet ownership.
The reminder comes as Gannawarra Shire Council continues to receive “numerous reports” of misconduct, which has resulted in dog attacks.
Gannawarra Shire Council’s director of infrastructure and development, Geoff Rollinson, said there were incidents being reported specifically where dogs had attacked other people, as well as other animals.
“It is the animal owner’s responsibility to ensure dogs are on a leash and are controlled at all times,” Mr Rollinson said.
“Dogs off leash in approved areas must be under effective voice control, meaning you must be able to control your dog by the second call.
“It is also important that your dog can’t escape from your home or backyard, or attack a passer-by from where it is confined.”
Dogs can be walked off-leash on private property, at recreation reserves when a sporting fixture is not taking place and at certain parks.
While there are designated off-leash areas within the shire, residents are reminded that pets must be restrained at Atkinson Park in Kerang.
Apex Park, Garden Park and Gilrule Park at Cohuna and Gorton Point at Kangaroo Lake include other locations where dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Infringement penalties range from $165 for allowing a dog to rush or chase a person to $413 for a non-serious injury caused by a dog attack.
More serious offences are dealt with through the Magistrates’ Court, which can result in penalties of up to $1650, excluding legal costs and court convictions.
“Council recognises that the majority of pet owners are responsible and caring, however pet owners who allow their pets to roam off leash will face the consequences of their actions and as a result may be charged and prosecuted if their dogs cause injury or menace,” Mr Rollinson said.
It is also an offence for an owner to fail to carry a suitable animal litter device to clean up after their dog if required.
