The number of dog attacks has more than doubled across Cardinia Shire since before the pandemic, as revealed by the council’s new pet management policy.
Cardinia Shire Council responded to over 160 reports relating to an attack or rush by a dog over the last year which compares to just 67 that were recorded in the 2019-20 financial year.
The council acknowledged that this number is only reflective of what is reported by residents.
The majority of reports regard dog attacks, which accounted for 111 of the incidents.
The council’s compliance team investigates each attack as a high-priority case with the power to seize dogs during the investigation of a suspected attack, if required.
This has occurred with little change to the identification of dog threats with only five “dangerous dogs” declared over the last year.
The council will continue to engage with the community on the legal parameters of pet ownership including containment, desexing and leash requirements, with targeted campaigns in local areas high in dog attacks.
More animals are being impounded and less dogs are being reclaimed. In 2020, 173 dogs were claimed at the pound and seven were euthanised compared to 119 reclaimed and 44 euthanised over the past year.
The Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2029 was adopted by the council and feedback is sought from the community.
You can provide your feedback at creating.cardinia.vic.gov.au/help-shape-our-domestic-animal-management-plan
