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Large Fine Should Sound Warning to Dog Owners

A fine of $8000 plus costs of $2000 imposed on a Bairnsdale dog owner last week should act as a strong warning to owners of aggressive dogs, according to East Gippsland Shire Council’s Community Laws Manager Heather Jones.

By East Gippsland Shire Council - 21st February 2005 - Back to News

"All owners of dogs must be aware of their pet’s potential to cause injury to other animals and even small children," Ms Jones said

"The responsibility lies with the owner to choose a breed of dog appropriate for their circumstances and to socialise and train the dog from an early age.

"Keeping a dog imposes serious obligations on owners to ensure they are well trained, housed correctly, and pose no risk to others."

The $8000 fine was imposed on Mr Shannon Lees after Magistrate Lou Hill found him guilty on charges of failing to register two dogs, having two dogs at large and two separate attacks involving both of his dogs.

The East Gippsland Shire Council alleged that on 12 July 2004 Mr Lees’ two dogs left his premises and ran to another property four doors away. At that property they attacked a pet Kelpie and savagely mauled her as a result of which she required intensive veterinary intervention to save her life.

Council also alleged that in a further two dog attacks on 30 October 2004, Mr. Lees’ dogs set upon a Toy Poodle which was being walked by its owner.

The Poodle’s owner bravely intervened and rescued her dog that was fortunate to escape with only minor injuries, it was claimed.

As a result Council impounded the two Red Heeler/cross-breed dogs on November 24 and they were euthanised last Saturday following the Magistrate Court’s decision.

Ms Jones said this was a case where accepting responsibility and showing consideration for others would have obviated the necessity for an expensive court case and for the loss of any animal’s life.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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