Gympie council crackdown as dog attacks rise

Irresponsible dog owners could be fined more than $3000 as the Gympie council vows to get tough with unleashed dogs in the wake of a “steep” rise in serious attacks.

Gympie Regional Council is cracking down on unleashed dogs amid a “steep” rise in dog attacks in the past month, some which have resulted in serious injuries.

Mayor Glen Hartwig said on Monday the council recorded 16 attacks in the region this past month, a rate four times higher than normal.

There were usually “about 50” attacks each year.

This latest spate of attacks, many in public spaces, were especially concerning.

“There’s been some serious injuries,” Mr Hartwig said.

“We’re asking residents to take their time when they’re out with their dog, make sure that they’re on a leash.”

Those who continued to disobey would find themselves at the mercy of the council’s “no patience policy”, which would be enforced in full.

A “steep” rise in dog attacks across the region has forced the council to take a “no patience policy” over unleashed dogs, Mayor Glen Harwtwig said.

Failing to control their dog in a public place could result in fines of up to $3096.

There were other penalties which could be enforced too which would prove heartbreaking residents.

“Dog owners are putting their pet in a situation where they could be put down,” Mr Hartwig said.

“If your dog is involved and it’s declared a dangerous dog, there are very few options that are left to the council to do other than to have it humanely put down.

“That’s something we want to avoid.”

“When you’re out in a public space, have it on a leash,” Mr Hartwig said.

“It’s just not an option not to.

“Make sure you can control your dog, and if you can’t then don’t bring it into a public space.”

Originally published as Gympie council crackdown as dog attacks rise