Roam If You Want To: Council Issues Stark Warning After Dogs Wreak Havoc on Local Farms

Narrandera Shire Council has issued a stern warning to dog owners following a spate of distressing incidents where roaming dogs have attacked and killed livestock on local farms. The council is urging immediate action to secure pets, highlighting the severe financial and legal consequences for owners whose animals are involved in such attacks.

Key Takeaways

• Owners must take responsibility for securely confining their dogs at all times.
• Escaped dogs can cause devastating harm to livestock, leading to significant financial and legal repercussions.
• Farmers have legal rights to protect their livestock from attacking dogs.

The Growing Problem of Livestock Attacks

Recent weeks have seen a concerning rise in incidents where dogs have escaped from both residential and rural properties, venturing onto farmland. These animals have subsequently attacked sheep and other livestock, resulting in death or serious injury. Beyond the immediate trauma for the animals, these attacks inflict considerable financial losses and emotional distress on farmers.

Legal Ramifications for Dog Owners

Narrandera Shire Council is reminding residents of the serious legal and financial consequences associated with uncontrolled dogs. Under existing legislation, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 and the Companion Animals Act 1998, farmers are legally empowered to take necessary measures to stop or prevent dogs from attacking or harassing their livestock. Furthermore, farmers may pursue civil action against dog owners to recoup costs associated with livestock loss and property damage.

Council also possesses the authority to impose substantial fines on owners of dogs found to be roaming freely or involved in livestock attacks.

Council's Call to Action for Dog Owners

Shannon Rivero, Council's Compliance Officer, emphasised the critical need for owner responsibility. "Dog owners must take responsibility for ensuring their animals are securely confined at all times," Rivero stated. "It only takes a moment for a dog to escape and cause devastating harm to livestock, and that can result in serious financial and legal repercussions for the owner."

To prevent further incidents, the council strongly advises all dog owners to:

• Regularly inspect fencing and gates to ensure they are secure and prevent escapes.
• Never permit dogs to roam unsupervised.
• Ensure all dogs are properly registered, microchipped, and easily identifiable.
• Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-driven escape behaviours.

Sources

• Council Warning On Roaming Dogs After Livestock Attacks, The National Tribune.