Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets on a leash after a dog died in Newport last Thursday and another received 50 stitches after being attacked at Seabrook last month.
It is believed the dog that died was attacked by two Dobermans. The other dog was attacked by three pitbulls at the 100 Steps in Truganina Park on August 15.
More than 80 dog attacks have been reported to Hobsons Bay council in the past 12 months.
Mayor Sandra Wilson said most were avoidable.
“It is extremely important for owners to keep dogs on a leash at all times when in public,” she said. “Council has designated dog off-leash areas if owners want to allow their dogs to have a run.
“Owners must also ensure their dogs are under effective control at all times. This includes securely confining them at home with adequate fencing.”
Dog attacks include incidents where a dog rushes at, attacks, bites, harasses or chases a person or animal, regardless of whether it results in injury.
Cr Wilson urged people to immediately report dog attacks to the council.
She said attacks in the past 12 months had varied in degree of seriousness, but all were investigated.
Penalties vary depending on the nature of the attack, ranging from on-the-spot fines to court prosecution.
