The new, state of the art, Shoalhaven Animal Shelter opened on Tuesday, where council launched its campaign to reduce the prevalence of dog attacks.
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In one year, from April 2017-2018, there were 121 dog attacks recorded in the Shoalhaven – 121 too many according to rangers.
Many attacks involve children and rangers have embarked on a campaign for children who have been bitten by aggressive dogs.
Children are being left scared after suffering injuries from being mauled or bitten by the family dog or dogs roaming off a lead. Even being chased by a strange dog can traumatise a child.
Rangers will be handing out ‘trauma puppies’ to children affected by a dog attack.
Council rangers are asking volunteer groups and individuals to help knit a trauma puppy.
Trauma puppies can be dropped to the rangers at the council administration building at Nowra or Ulladulla.
Shoalhaven City Council has launched an educational campaign on responsible dog ownership with an aim to avoid dog attacks in the area.
A dangerous dog is a dog that:
- Has, without provocation, attacked or killed a person or animal (other than vermin); or
- Has, without provocation, repeatedly threatened to attack or repeatedly chased a person or animal (other than vermin); or
- Has displayed unreasonable aggression towards a person or animal (other than vermin); or
- Is kept or used for the purposes of hunting.
Owners of dangerous dogs have a range of obligations they are required to meet.
The Paws and Think campaign encourages responsible dog ownership. Ensure your dog is desexed, trained and kept secure and keep the dog active with regular walks. Get your dog microchipped and registered and your details are up-to-date. Ensure your dog is on a lead on walks and secure in their back yard. Warn people if your dog may bite and train your dog.