mmg.com.au

Greater Shepparton City Council is increasing community ranger patrols in the Murchison area after a number of reports were made about stray dogs wandering the streets.

Council’s animal management and local laws team leader Mark Eade said the number of dogs being reported and picked up in Murchison, Dookie and Tatura was an indication they were not being confined to properties properly.

‘‘We get a number of calls from people who are anxious about the whereabouts of their dog. It would appear from these calls the dog was not securely confined,’’ he said. Mr Eade said unrestrained dogs were a risk to everyone as research showed 80 per cent of dog attacks in public places occurred because dogs were not adequately confined to the owner’s property.

‘‘Dog owners can easily avoid the legal and financial consequences of dog attacks if they ensure their dog is properly confined. This means escape proof fencing and closed gates,’’ he said.

Mr Eade said fines for failing to comply are $183 for a first offence during daytime and $244 for dogs not securely confined at night.