Encouraging responsible pet ownership and reducing the number of dog attacks on the Western Downs has prompted an approved inspection program by Western Downs Regional Council.
From 1 February to 30 June 2026, Council rangers will be conducting animal inspections at properties in Bell, Tara, and Wandoan to ensure dog owners are complying with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 which requires pets to be registered and microchipped by law.
Rangers will also be checking owners are maintaining suitable, secure enclosures for their animals.
Council spokesperson for Planning and Environment Deputy Mayor Kylie Bourne said the approved inspection program was a positive initiative aimed at reducing dog attacks, roaming animals, and pet impoundments.
"Unfortunately, across the Western Downs last year, we saw some concerning statistics around unrestrained and inadequately enclosed dogs," Cr Bourne said.
"At 3 December, Council had received 190 reported dog attacks in 2025, which equates to between four and five incidents in our towns every week.
"Council responded to 503 reports of roaming animals and impounded 476 pets in this same period for 2025, which means in an average week on the Western Downs there are at least 11 incidents where people are not keeping their pets safely enclosed and at least 10 impoundments.
"What's more concerning is that these figures only reflect the incidents that have been formally reported to Council.
"A quick scan through community group forums on social media suggest there is a significantly higher number of unreported incidents, particularly involving dog attacks and roaming dogs."
Cr Bourne said in the coming weeks, Council rangers would be visiting households to offer advice on responsible dog ownership, check on important aspects of animal welfare including registration and microchipping, and to ensure pets are securely contained.
"Our rangers are here to help and support responsible pet ownership. Please treat them with respect as they work to keep both our residents and our pets safe," she said.
"We're encouraging dog owners to ensure their animals are registered and microchipped to avoid any penalties that might apply, and to make sure dogs are securely contained to prevent them from escaping and roaming.
"Registration and microchipping helps our rangers unite lost pets with their families and is required by law."
The inspections will be conducted in Bell, Tara, and Wandoan from 1 February to 30 June 2026. Inspection times will take place between 7am to 6pm Monday to Sunday.
Residents are reminded that the dog registration period lasts from 1 August to 31 July each year. Dog registrations expire on 31 July regardless of the month a dog is registered. Pro-rata discounts apply.
