FOLLOWING reports of dogs roaming on rural properties within the South East Livestock Health and Pest Authority, domestic dog owners are being reminded to supervise their dogs at all times to avoid unintentional attacks on livestock.
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Rodney Rankin, ranger with the South East LHPA, said the LHPA had been made aware of recent attacks on livestock in the Delegate area, where approximately 50 sheep had been attacked on two properties
“All dogs, including domestic and wild dogs, have the potential to predate on sheep, calves, goats, alpacas and other stock, as well as native wildlife,” he said.
“One of the LHPA’s roles is to assist landholders control wild dogs on their land, but we also get requests for advice on how to deal with domestic dogs that have strayed onto private property.
“Domestic dogs must be kept under control and supervision at all times. If a dog strays onto a private property and if the occupier believes it will molest or injure livestock, the landholder has the right to destroy the animal (section 22(5) of the Companion Animals Act 1998). If dogs cause injury to an animal the owner of the dog is liable for damages.
“If anyone witnesses a wild dog attacking livestock you should call their local LHPA if they believe it’s a domestic dog they should notify their local council ranger or the police - ASAP.
“The LHPA rangers can assist if it is a wild dog issue by providing advice and where applicable baits and traps. Note that there are fines of $5500.00 for anyone interfering with trap devices and remote cameras maybe used in conjunction with trap devices.”
Local council rangers can assist if the dog causing the damage is a domestic dog as they are authorised under the Companion Animals Act.
“Quite often the dogs involved may be attacking livestock on more than one property. By reporting any attacks the rangers can build up a better picture of the situation,” Mr Rankin said.
“For wild dog control, the most effective results can be achieved by coordinating control efforts over large areas. The LHPA can assist with coordination of group control programs.”
Contact details are, SELHPA Bombala 02 6458 3055, Council Ranger 0417 677 153.