Aggressive dogs can cause a real danger to other people and animals in the community, who have the right to walk in public places without fear of being attacked.
Council is required to act upon all complaints received for aggressive dogs.
The complainant will be asked to complete a Statement for Dog Attack (PDF 234KB) with sufficient information to provide Council with grounds to investigate.
The identity of the complainant will remain confidential in any correspondence from Council. If the matter goes to Court, the complainant/s will be required to supply evidence in person.
Depending upon the severity of the attack, the dog may also be seized, impounded and/or destroyed, in addition to the owner being fined and/or prosecuted.
The dog may also be declared either a Dangerous Dog or Menacing Dog under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. The owner must comply with legislated conditions for keeping a declared dog and will incur additional registration fees.