Monash Council has put the increase in dog attacks down to “better awareness”. Do you agree?
Monash Council said in 2014 there were 85 dog attacks, up from 56 in 2010.
The council said about 40 per cent of the attacks were on people, with the remainder on other dogs or animals. Only two attacks involved restricted breed dogs, and both of those dogs were euthanised.
Yet by March 30, there had already been 17 dog attacks since the start of the year.
Mayor Paul Klisaris said the increase was due to better awareness as a result of patrols and community education.
"People are much more aware of who to contact if they are attacked by a dog," Cr Klisaris said.
He said phone calls and emails about wandering or stray dogs also tended to spike after media reports on restricted breed dogs.
Cr Klisaris said dog owners could reduce the risk of dogs attacking others by choosing a suitable breed for their family and lifestyle, training the dog and ensuring it is well socialised.
Dogs should also be kept in a secure yard and walked on a lead, he said.
Cr Klisaris said people approaching dogs could also take precautions such as asking permission from the owner before patting a dog.
"Dogs should be approached from an angle rather than directly from the front or rear," he said.
"If a dog appears startled or unhappy with your attention, and backs away or does not sniff your hand, then leave the dog alone."
Source: Waverley Leader
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