Dog owner convicted in Court after serious attack

Published on 10 May 2019

A dog owner has been ordered to pay more than $1000 after her Alaskan malamute cross attacked a short haired pointer being walked on lead by its owner near the Wimmera River in Horsham last year.

Horsham Rural City Council successfully prosecuted the dog owner in the Horsham Magistrates’ Court last week.

The court ordered the 46-year-old woman to pay fines and costs totalling $800 plus compensation for veterinary treatment and Council’s legal fees.

“Responsible pet ownership is extremely important to Council and our community,” Mayor Mark Radford said.

“Keeping your dog on a lead in public places is not only the responsible thing to do – it’s also a legal requirement under the Domestic Animal Act.

“This prosecution is also a reminder to everyone that there are legal consequences if your dog attacks another person or animal.”

The attack happened last year on the walking track along the Wimmera River near the Horsham Rowing Club. 

The offending dog, an Alaskan malamute cross charged the nearby man’s dog and began to attack the dog on lead.   

The man’s dog was taken to a veterinary clinic suffering punctures to its front left leg.

Manager Regulatory Services Lauren Coman reminded all pet owners that dogs were legally required to be kept safe – on a lead in public places and with adequate fencing at home.

“Pets are an important part of many people’s lives, but pet ownership comes with important responsibilities and legal obligations,” Ms Coman said.

“The safety of the Wimmera community is a priority for Council, and pet owners are reminded to be aware of their obligations under the law.”

“This includes microchipping and registering your dogs and cats with Council so they can be safely returned to you if they are lost.”

Any dog or cat three months of age or over must be registered with the local council in which the pet is kept.