By Goya Dmytryshchak
Dog owners in Hobsons Bay are being urged to do the right thing in the wake of increased reports of attacks.
The council has launched a campaign promoting responsible pet ownership and will step up patrols by animal management officers.
In a recent case, two dogs were attacked in separate incidents by the same off-lead dog in Williamstown on July 15.
Authorities are still searching for the attacking dog, which has been described as large, black and tan and possibly a rottweiler breed.
Both injured dogs needed veterinary treatment and one required surgery.
There were 92 dog attacks investigated by the council in the year to June 30, compared with 64 in the previous financial year.
Hobsons Bay mayor Jonathon Marsden said dogs must be on a lead except in designated dog off-lead areas.
Dog owners must maintain effective verbal control of and actively supervise their pets in off-lead areas, Cr Marsden said.
“We have seen a number of incidences involving dog walkers in charge of multiple animals or owners who were checking their phones rather than actively watching their pets,” he said.
“All dogs, regardless of their breed, must be properly socialised to ensure the safety of our community, and if your dog is not trained or socialised, then it is advised to keep them on a lead at all times, even in an off-lead area.”
Star Weekly has reported on multiple dogs injured by other dogs at P.A. Burns Reserve, better known as Altona dog beach.
Spot fines of up to $200 may be issued or fines of $1000 if the matter goes to court.
