AUSTRALIA -- A MAN was fined $7500 after a dog attacked another dog in Byron Bay, prompting Byron Shire Council to again warn dog owners they are liable for their pet's actions.
Byron Shire Council's governance manager, Ralph James, said a dangerous dog visiting from the Woollahra council area, was unrestrained and had attacked another dog whilst in Byron Bay.
The dog that was attacked was being walked on a lead at the time.
A Sydney man was fined $7500 in a local court, plus costs of over $1500, Mr James said.
The dog that attacked had been declared a dangerous dog which was of serious concern to council staff.
"It was a strong warning that pet owners are liable for their pet's behaviour at home and in other locations when visiting.
"Once a dog is declared dangerous they must be kept restrained in a fenced yard, wear a prescribed distinctive collar, be on a lead and wear a muzzle when out being walked.
"If a pet owner takes the dog out of a council area, the council must be notified along with the visiting council area."
Mr James also said the magistrate gave serious consideration to a destruction order but declined to do so on the council's submission that the dog was housed in the Woollahra Council area and that Woollahra was dealing with the issue of the dog.
"The question of any destruction of the animal should be left to Woollahra," Mr James said.
Another recent dog attack case determined in mid June, saw a local man fined $4,000 and ordered to pay costs and expenses of $7,708 after his dog bit a neighbour.
The victim required 16 stitches and the dog was also declared dangerous as a result of the attack.
(Ballina Shire Advocate - July 24, 2013)
