By BRIDGET COOK
A HAMPTON Park pet owner has been prosecuted after their dog escaped its premises and killed a cat.
The City of Casey prosecuted the resident in the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court for numerous offences in relation to their Staffordshire bull terrier.
The dog owner pleaded guilty to having a dog at large not confined to the owner’s premises, failing to register a dog and a serious dog attack causing the death of another animal.
The dog owner was convicted and fined $6603.
City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon said the council placed a high importance on promoting responsible pet ownership within the community and enforcing any matters which pose a threat to the safety of residents or their animals.
“Wandering dogs can cause a risk to other residents and animals and have also been known to unwittingly cause car accidents,” she said.
“It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure their dog is confined to their premises, or is under their control at all times.”
City of Casey community safety manager Caroline Bell said the council’s local laws officers enforced the Domestic Animals Act 1994 through the investigation of alleged dog attacks and incidences of dogs at large.
“In addition to enforcing the law, local laws officers also educate residents about responsible pet ownership to ensure their pets are secured so they don’t cause problems in their neighbourhood.
“The council will not hesitate to investigate dog attack incidents and, any residents that witness or are the victim of a dog attack, are encouraged to contact the council.”
Ms Bell also reminded residents that it was now time to ensure their pets were registered with the council, with registration due yesterday.
Under state legislation any dog or cat which is three months of age or older needs to be registered with the council where they reside.
If you are a pet owner and haven’t received your animal registration renewal notice yet, or to report a dog attack, contact the council on 9705 5200.
