Dog Attacks
Dog Attacks
What to Do if a Dog Attacks
If you or your pet has been attacked by a dog, your first priority should be to seek appropriate medical or veterinary treatment.
Once it is safe to do so, the incident should be reported to the relevant council as soon as possible. If the attack occurred within the Port Pirie Regional Council area, please contact Council on (08) 8633 9720.
Prompt reporting is important, particularly if the dog is still at large and may pose an ongoing risk to the community.
Reporting a Dog Attack
When reporting a dog attack, please provide as much information as possible to assist Council's investigation, including:
- The date and time of the incident
- The exact location where the attack occurred
- A description of the dog, including:
- Breed or type
- Colour and markings
- Sex
- Collar colour and size
- Name, Registration disc or identification tag details (if known)
- A description of the owner, including:
- Name and address (if known)
- Contact details
- Physical description
- Vehicle details, if applicable, including:
- Registration number
- Make, model, and colour
- Photographs of any injuries sustained by a person, pet, or livestock
You should also retain copies of any medical reports, veterinary records, invoices, and other related documentation, as these may assist with the investigation.
What Happens After a Dog Attack is Reported?
Once a report is received, a Council Compliance Officer may undertake an investigation which can include:
- Taking statements from those involved
- Photographing injuries or damage caused by the attack
- Contacting the dog's owner to obtain their account of the incident
- Obtaining witness statements
- Gathering additional evidence
- Assessing the circumstances surrounding the attack
Following the investigation, Council will determine the appropriate course of action and advise the parties involved of the outcome.
Owner Responsibilities
Dog owners are responsible for the actions of their dogs.
Under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995, it is an offence for a dog to attack, harass, or chase a person, animal or bird owned by a person.
Owners can face penalties and enforcement action where their dog has been involved in an attack or serious incident.
Possible Enforcement Action
Depending on the circumstances and severity of the incident, Council may:
- Issue a warning
- Issue an expiation notice ($500)
- Issue a control order, including:
- Nuisance Dog Order
- Menacing Dog Order
- Dangerous Dog Order
- Destruction Order
More serious incidents may result in prosecution before the Court.
For further information, refer to the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995.
Preventing Dog Bites and Attacks
Dogs may bite or attack for a variety of reasons, including fear, anxiety, pain, stress, or inadequate socialisation. Recognising and responding to behavioural warning signs can help prevent incidents from occurring.
Responsible dog owners can reduce the risk of dog attacks by:
- Socialising their dog from an early age
- Providing appropriate training and obedience instruction
- Ensuring their dog is properly supervised and controlled in public places
- Avoiding situations that may cause their dog stress or anxiety
- Consulting a veterinarian if their dog displays aggressive behaviour
- Desexing their dog, where appropriate
Training and positive social experiences help dogs develop confidence and learn how to interact safely with people and other animals.
Need Assistance?
If you have been involved in a dog attack or would like further information, please contact Council on (08) 8633 9720.
For more information on being a good dog owner, visit the Dog and Cat Management Board website