Warning after dog attack

A DOG attack which left a man with several injuries has prompted a strict warning from the Yarra Ranges council to local pet owners.
Deputy Mayor Maria McCarthy said Yarra Ranges council officers would investigate all reported dog attacks and prosecute where there was sufficient evidence.
The warning comes after a Montrose woman was recently convicted and fined $2000 because her two dogs attacked a man who was working on her property.
As a result of the attack, the man had deep lacerations, muscular damage to arms and hands, a severed ear and multiple puncture wounds to both his legs and the soles of his feet.
Neighbours tried to help the man but were unable to fend off the animals. Police had to use three canisters of capsicum spray to subdue the dogs, which council rangers seized and subsequently had euthanised.
Cr McCarthy said this year there had been 126 reported dog attacks compared with 94 for the same time last year.
“We have recently successfully prosecuted a number of animal/dog owners and we will continue to do so to make our streets safer for everyone,” Cr McCarthy said.
“Dog owners have a responsibility to ensure their pet does not attack, rush or threaten anyone.”
Cr McCarthy said dog owners should contain their dogs to their properties, regularly walk and socialise them, consider obedience training and be aware of their strength and power, particularly large dogs.
Dog attacks can be reported to 1300 368 333.