Baw Baw Shire Council has successfully prosecuted a 31-year-old man following a serious dog attack incident that left another pet dog with significant injuries.
The three dogs owned by the resident – including one already declared a 'menacing dog' – were not adequately contained at the owner's Drouin property. Two of the dogs forced entry onto a neighbouring residential property, where they attacked a pet dog, inflicting severe injuries.
Evidence presented revealed that the same 'menacing dog' had previously been involved in a similar attack in the Latrobe City Council area. That earlier incident had resulted in infringement notices and the dog being officially declared 'menacing' under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
The resident was charged with 11 offences, including being the owner of a menacing dog that caused serious injury, failure to contain dogs to a property, and failure to register dogs.
The Magistrate found all charges proven and highlighted the critical importance of responsible pet ownership, especially in cases where there is a known history of dog aggression.
The accused was convicted on all 11 charges, fined a total of $1,900, and ordered to pay substantial veterinary costs to the victim dog owner. However, the Magistrate opted not to issue an order for the destruction of the attacking dogs.
Mayor Cr Danny Goss said the outcome sends a clear message to all pet owners.
"Our community has the right to feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods, and this case highlights the serious consequences that can follow when dog owners fail to take responsibility for their animals," said Mayor Goss.
"Far too often we see people in our community walking dogs off leash, they show little regard for other pet owners often claiming their animal is harmless. We need to see this behaviour stopped.
"Council will continue to act decisively and with the interest of the community when it comes to dangerous or menacing dogs, and we expect all pet owners to be responsible and meet their legal obligations."
Council urges all dog owners to ensure their pets are securely confined to their properties and registered.
