Good Dogs Have Bad Days
From unfamiliar dogs to beloved family pets, any dog can bite under certain circumstances. Dogs may react because they are frightened, anxious, stressed, unwell, in pain, or feel threatened. Understanding dog behaviour and recognising warning signs can help prevent incidents and keep both people and animals safe.
Port Pirie Regional Council supports the Dog and Cat Management Board's "Good Dogs Have Bad Days" educational campaign, which aims to increase community awareness about dog behaviour, responsible dog ownership, and dog bite prevention.
Each year, more than 500 South Australians are admitted to hospital for treatment and recovery following dog bite-related injuries. While many people recognise the potential risks posed by unfamiliar dogs, incidents often involve dogs that are known to the victim, including family pets.
By learning how dogs communicate and understanding situations that may cause them to react negatively, we can reduce the likelihood of dog attacks and help create a safer community for everyone.
Below are some resources from the Dog and Cat Board about how to protect your dog, family and the community.