Community takes a stand against ’appalling’ copycat dog baiters
Two Brisbane councillors have set a date for dog owners to unite and breathe life back into their local dog parks, which have become “ghost towns” following a spate of copycat baiting cases.
Two Brisbane City Councillors have teamed up to host A Dog’s Breakfast in Meadowlands Road Dog Park to try to restore confidence in the city’s off-leash areas after baiting attacks.
Councillors Ryan Murphy (Chandler) and Lisa Atwood (Doboy) said the event provided an inviting space for pet owners to celebrate the benefits of dog ownership.
Cr Murphy said he had the idea after taking his family dog Honey to the Meadowlands Rd off-leash area and seeing it almost deserted.
“It was eerie, normally there are dogs coming up to you left, right and centre, but last week there was only three other dogs there. It was a ghost town,” Cr Murphy said.
“I thought, we need to show people that these dog parks are still safe. So, we’re creating a fun morning out for the whole family, especially for our four-legged friends.”
A Dog’s Breakfast will take place from 7am-11am on Saturday, August 31, at Meadowlands Road Dog Park, Carina, and will feature free coffee, food trucks and giveaways.
Stall holders include the RSPCA, Council’s Dog registration team and other pet product suppliers.
■ SIX REPORTS OF COPYCAT CASES IN ONE SUBURB
■ VET’S ADVICE ON HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE
■ HAWTHORNE MAN CHARGED ON DOG BAITING
Cr Lisa Atwood said she was amazed to see how business and community groups came together to support the event.
“Dogs have such a special place in people’s hearts. To think anyone would hurt them is just appalling, so there’s a lot of angst in the community now,” she said.
“We want to let these dog baiters know it hasn’t worked. We won’t let them win.” she said.
