Preventing Dog Attacks

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure your dog is contained on your private property and under effective control in public areas. To prevent dog attacks, follow these guidelines:

• Secure Your Property: Check your fencing to ensure your dog cannot escape.

• Recall Training: Train your dog to come back when called.

• Control on a Lead: Always have control of your dog when on a lead, and use a harness if needed.

• Socialisation: Socialise your dog to reduce aggression, fear, or anxiety towards other dogs and people.

• De-sexing: Consider de-sexing your dog to help manage their behaviour.

• Supervise Around Children: Always supervise your dog around children. Running, yelling, hitting, or pulling on a dog’s fur can increase the risk of an attack.

What to do if a dog attack occurs

The City takes dog attacks very seriously and investigates all reported incidents. If you or your dog are involved in a dog attack, seek medical or veterinary attention, and then contact the City’s Rangers at 9394 5000.

To aid the investigation, please gather as much information as possible, including:

• Description of the dog or dog owner, including physical features, clothing, their vehicle, and the direction they came from/went

• Location, date, and time of the incident

• Description of your dog

• Witness information

• Photos of any injuries sustained

• Medical and veterinary documentation (if applicable)

Actions the City will take following a dog attack report

If a dog attack is in progress or has just occurred, a Ranger will attend the scene to assess whether the offending dog has been contained or needs to be seized immediately to prevent further disruption to the community.

The Rangers will then begin a thorough investigation of the alleged attack, which includes:

• Obtaining statements from all parties involved, including the victim, the dog owner, and any witnesses

• Collecting photographic evidence of any injuries, the location of the attack, and the attacking dog(s) (if known) for identification

• Gathering any relevant medical and/or veterinary documentation

• Determining if the attacking dog has any prior incidents

• Assessing the severity of the attack and the circumstances surrounding the incident

The investigating Ranger may need to contact you multiple times for signing documentation or for further clarification.

Once the report has been compiled, the Ranger will finalise the investigation and the City will decide on an outcome. The outcome of a dog attack can include infringements, the dog being declared dangerous or court action. 

Can the City help recover my medical or veterinary costs?

No, any claim for costs related to a dog attack is a civil matter and should be resolved between the parties involved. We recommend seeking independent legal advice for assistance.  This is separate from the investigation and any potential actions the City will pursue under the provisions of the Dog Act 1976.