Dog owners on notice

as posted here



Chris Robinson and Glenn Cordingley

February 07, 2009 06:00pm

THOUSANDS of dog owners are flouting bylaws by letting their pets run riot when they should be on leads.

The problem, which has led to dog bites and general nuisance to other park users, has forced several councils to consider stricter enforcement and push for harsher penalties.

This week pet owners were caught on camera by The Sunday Times ignoring signs that dogs be leashed at all times.

A survey of six local councils showed there had been 323 reported dog attacks in the past 12 months, ranging from minor incidents to serious injuries and bites.

Councils can issue $100 on-the-spot infringements for dogs that are off-lead and $200 on-the-spot fines for off-lead dogs that have been ``declared dangerous''.

Larger fines of up to $4000 can apply in some circumstances.

City of Stirling community safety manager Laurie Crouch has called for tougher measures and penalties for irresponsible dog owners.

``Councils have been waiting on the State Government to introduce amendments to the Dog Act, providing more power for rangers to deal more effectively with irresponsible dog owners,'' he said.

``A hundred dollars for most of the penalties doesn't send a clear message.

``We're looking forward to (amendments) which will include provisions for increased fines.''

The problem of owners ignoring the rules has forced the City of Rockingham and the City of Gosnells to review their dog laws and exercise areas.

``This is to keep dogs from running free around kids at playground equipment, during sport games on ovals and to ensure dogs are under control around water features to protect the wildlife,'' Rockingham senior ranger Peter Oliver said.

The City of Bayswater is preparing to study the interaction between dogs and families at two of its most popular reserves - Riverside Gardens and Bardon Park, where there are areas for dog owners to allow their pets to run free. A number of complaints have been made about dogs terrorising people in these areas.

City of Bayswater mayor Lou Magro said while many pet owners did the right thing, irresponsible owners were spoiling it for others.

``Unfortunately, there are a few owners who seem to think that once let off the leash, they are no longer responsible for their dog's behaviour in the exercise areas,'' he said.

as posted here