Dangerous dogs are those that have:
- caused serious injury to a person or other animal; or
- displayed behaviour that shows the animal is likely to cause serious injury.
If either of the above occurs, the General Manager is able to serve notice on the owner of the dog in question, and declare the dog to be dangerous.
When this happens the owner of the dog has added responsibilities. Whilst their dog is out in public they must ensure that:
- the dog is always muzzled;
- the dog's lead is no longer than 2 metres and strong enough to control and restrain the dog; and
- the person in charge of the dog is over 18 years of age.
When the dog is on private premises the owner must ensure that:
- the dog is enclosed in a child proof area; and
- the dog is secured by a lead no longer than 2 metres when not under the supervision of an adult.
In addition, the dog must be microchipped and always wear an approved collar.
The collar approved (by the Director of Local Government) is red and yellow striped, and is the same as that used in Victoria.
Once a dog has been microchipped the chip cannot be removed without the consent of the General Manager. If it is removed without consent the maximum possible penalty is $2000.
If you own a dog that has been declared dangerous you must also ensure that there are approved warning signs on every entrance to your property. Your local animal control officer will be able to tell you what form these signs and collars should take.
Those owners who have had their dog declared dangerous may appeal against that decision to a magistrate within 14 days of the declaration.
