Dog days

By Lia Bichel
The State Government introduced the legislation on Tuesday, one week after a Berwick man’s lip was ripped apart by a roaming dog, similar to a Staffordshire terrier (Staffy), in Sweeney Reserve.
The 27-year-old man was taken to Dandenong Hospital to undergo plastic surgery.
The dog has still not been caught and police are still searching for information regarding the dog’s owner.
Sergeant Ken Rich said the police were working with Casey Council to determine owners of Staffies in the area in an attempt to track down the dog and its owners and depending on the circumstances, the owner could face charges and the dog could be put down.
City of Casey Acting Manager Community Safety Jem Belcher said that under the Domestic Animals Act, any dogs found wandering at large were impounded by council.
“If the dog is wearing a collar with tags on it, or is micro-chipped, the owner is notified. When the dog is claimed, infringement notices are issued for offences under the Act,” Mr Belcher said.
“Dog attacks within the City of Casey are investigated by council officers pursuant to the Domestic Animals Act and penalties apply. Dependant upon the seriousness of the attack, the matter can be referred to the Magistrates’ Court where an outcome to the case will be determined.”
Under the new State Government legislation, owners of dangerous or restricted breed dogs who kill someone can face 10 years in jail. Owners who fail to notify their local council when their dog escapes or when they change address now face a doubling of penalties to $2442.
Owners of restricted breed dogs will also be required to ensure their dogs wear a warning collar when not at their property. In addition, it will be illegal for people to sell or transfer ownership of restricted breed dogs, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Peter Walsh said .
Mr Walsh said that from 30 September any dog identified as an American pitbull terrier that is not registered will be seized and destroyed.
“We are sending a clear message to owners of these dogs: if your animal endangers life or kills somebody, you will be held accountable,” Mr Walsh said.
Anyone who has information about the dog attack in Berwick is urged to contact Narre Warren police Station on 9705 3111, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or you could alternatively visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.
People can report a dog they believe is a restricted breed by phoning the dangerous dog hotline on 1300 10 10 80 between the hours of 8am and 6pm. The hotline should not be used in an emergency. If people are in immediate danger they should phone Triple- zero.