Safe and secure – maintaining effective control of your dogs
Wakefield Regional Council has noted a recent rise in dogs wandering at large and is reminding owners to keep their pets under control.
Over the past six months there has been over 30 complaints of dogs wandering at large leading to 20 dogs being impounded by Council.
Wakefield Regional Council’s Community Safety Officer, Michael Wilkin, said dogs may seem harmless when roaming unaccompanied, but they can quickly become a nuisance, frightened or distressed, which can lead to dog attacks.
“Under the Dog & Cat Management Act it is an offence to allow a dog to be wandering at large,” Mr Wilkin said.
“If your dog is found wandering at large it may be seized and detained by council with potential fines issued to owners.
“Council aims to reunite lost dogs or those found wandering at large with their owners as soon as possible, this can be achieved much faster if you maintain your dog’s details on the Dogs & Cats Online (DACO) website.
“If we are unable to identify your dog due to a lack of a collar or microchip, they will be impounded, which will lead to owners paying impound fees.
“Owners of dogs found to be repeatedly wandering at large may also face an expiation as set by the Dog and Cat Management Board of SA.”
There are a few quick steps you can follow to help keep your dog safe.
- Make sure your dog is properly fenced in and gates are shut or effectively contained at home.
- Use a leash when you are out in public places.
- Train them not to bark excessively.
- Stop them from roaming or being aggressive.
- Pick up after your dog.
- Make sure your dog is registered, microchipped and wears a collar so they can be returned if lost.
If you’d like to find more information on keeping your dog safe visit dogandcatboard.com.au or if you need to update your dog’s details visit: www.dogsandcatsonline.com.au