We have a major issue with roaming dogs in the Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC)
Due to the councils lack of action on this important issue there has been an increase in dog attacks though out the whole council.
It is the responsibly of the CCRC to control dogs in the Cassowary Coast.
Increasing concerns from members of the public about stray and unregistered dogs led Council to begin a dog audit in 2016, Inspectors check the number of dogs at residences and if the dog or dogs are registered. 2 extensive audits have been conducted in 2017 with the 3rd due to commence in October, 2017.
Deputy Mayor of CCRC, Clr Wayne Kimberley said, “Council investigates any reports and endeavours to maintain a safe environment for all in the community to ensure that dogs do not create health or safety problems and encourages responsible pet ownership.”
Clr Kimberley said, “We understand community expectations and encourage pet owners to ensure their dog is registered, they have an appropriate enclosure and fencing, do not allow their dogs to roam our streets and keep their dog under control and on a lead when outside its enclosure. As a community we need to work together to achieve a positive outcome for all our residents”
A lot of dogs are not even registered in the Cassowary Coast meaning the true number of dogs is unknown. CCRC has 4000 dogs registered with approximately 800 being under the category of rural dogs.
Did you know rural dog owners don’t have to pay for their dog rego. It should be user pay system, you own a dog, you pay for it.
CCRC have insufficient funds to manage dog issues and yet lose money by only having a small section of community pay.
In the last year there has been 60 reported dog attacks on people in the CCRC.
In 2016, 1700 customer requests were dealt with by CCRC Local Laws Officers in the form of lost animals, dogs attacks, barking dogs, animal registrations and excess dogs with 441 relating to wandering/roaming dogs which a number of those requests related to the same dog.
Laws need to change for the better, with better control of dogs from Council in their management of the issue.
Will it take a kid being killed in our community before real action is taken, sadly, it could be the case and amazing it hasn’t already happened.
Animal complaints can be made on the CCRC website
