Published on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 at 7:05:23 AM
Over the last few months there has been an increase in dog-related issues in Derby and the Shire would like to remind local dog-owners of their rights and responsibilities in regards to dog ownership in this region.
Shire rangers have noted a rising incidence of problem dog behaviour including but not limited to:
- Unrestrained dogs and dogs roaming in packs in both urban and rural areas.
- Dog attacks on other dogs and other animals.
- Dog attacks on humans.
- Dogs wandering onto private property without consent.
- Dogs not registered and microchipped.
The legal requirements to dog ownership include:
- Dogs over the age of 3 months are required to be microchipped & registered with the Local Government.
- Dogs must be confined to the property and have adequate fencing, or be held on a lead while in a public place, unless in an approved exercise area for dogs.
- Limit of 2 dogs per property unless a permit has been granted by the Local Government to have more.
The penalties for breaches of the Dog Act 1976 range from a $200 on the spot fine to court prosecutions.
Dogs found wandering or trapped by the rangers may be seized in accordance with the Dog Act. The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is now actively trapping dogs that are wandering. Dogs that are caught and not claimed (by an owner with proof of ownership willing to pay the release fees) will be impounded and disposed of in accordance with the Dog Act.
Repeat offenders may face prosecution action through the Magistrates court.
Thank you for your time and attention and we applaud those dog-owners already following the rules.
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