Following news of three dogs allegedly attacking a young mum last Friday afternoon (30 August), causing injuries to her legs, ankles, arms, elbows, and hands, Cllr Jarrod Bell is to raise the issue at the Monday 9 September meeting of the full council.
The woman was pushing a pram with a baby in Withers Close when she was knocked to the ground by the animals. The 35-year-old mum was taken to The Alfred hospital for treatment. Four dogs have since been seized by authorities.
The alleged attack on Friday follows reports of a pensioner apparently being bitted by the same dogs on Thursday 29 August. A 71-year-old is still being treated in hospital.
Cllr Bell is concerned about the council’s reporting and response following media reports the dogs had been reported to Hume City Council by neighbouring residents.
Cllr Bell will ask council staff to conduct an “immediate review of council’s internal reporting and response systems to ensure timely action is taken regarding reports of dangerous or threatening dogs in the municipality”.
He wants the investigation to ensure there is compliance with permit requirements for multiple dogs under Hume City Local Law, and dangerous dog declaration processes under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Cllr Bell is also calling for a clear communications strategy, including a reporting flowchart, to help residents understand the process for reporting dangerous dogs, and how officers will respond, including what steps are required under law to take action.
Finally, his notice of motion – which has to be supported by a majority of councillors to proceed – asks for a re-assessment of all dog on-lead, and off-lead areas, designated under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to “ensure they are appropriate, provide adequate buffer zones around playgrounds, and are clearly signed to indicate the appropriate activities in these areas”.
