Maranoa Regional Council calls on residents to help curb surge in dog attacks

Maranoa Regional Council is urging all local pet owners to take immediate action in securing their animals following an alarming increase in dog attacks.

In the first two months of 2025 alone, four dog attacks have been reported.

A total of 15 attacks in the last six months since September 2024 with one incident leaving a local resident with permanent injuries to their hand.

Dog attacks not only pose a serious risk to public safety, but also cause emotional distress to victims and the broader community.

Portfolio Spokesperson for Community Safety Cr Amber Davis said the rise in incidents was concerning and called on pet owners to be more vigilant in their responsibility to ensure the safety of their animals, their neighbours and the community.
“Each dog attack is a distressing event for both the victim and their families,” Cr Davis said.

“It is critical that all pet owners take full responsibility for their animals and ensure they are securely contained at all times.

“The safety and well-being of our residents is of the utmost importance, and we must work together to prevent further incidents like the one that left a local resident with permanent injuries.”

Under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 it is a legal requirement for pet owners to keep their animals under control and comply by relevant regulations.

Regulated dogs include dogs that have been declared dangerous, menacing or restricted.

Dogs that are found wandering without supervision may result in an on-the-spot fine of $322.

Cr Davis said the reported attack served as a reminder to all pet owners that failure to properly secure and supervise their animals can have serious consequences for both the victim and the community.

“We urge all dog owners to take extra care, ensuring their pets are securely confined within their property,” Cr Davis said.

“It’s not just about preventing legal repercussions; it’s about protecting our neighbours, our families and our friends.”

Key Responsibilities and Safety Tips for Pet Owners:

• Secure Your Property: Ensure your yard is adequately fenced and escape-proof to prevent animals from wandering.
• Supervise Your Pets: Ensure you're always aware of your pet's whereabouts, especially when they're outside your property.
• Keep Your Pets Leashed: When in public areas, always ensure your dog is on a leash to prevent unexpected interactions with other animals or people.
• Report Concerns: If you see an animal wandering or in distress, contact the Maranoa Regional Council immediately.

Failure to comply with these safety measures not only jeopardises public safety, but may also lead to fines and other legal actions.

Maranoa Regional Council’s Community Safety team takes matters seriously and will continue to enforce local regulations to protect the safety of all residents.

“Responsible pet ownership is not just a legal requirement – it is an ethical responsibility that we all must take seriously,” Cr Davis said.

During office hours please call 1300 007 662 and speak to a Community Safety Officer or alternatively, in an emergency after-hours, call the same number and select the application option to be transferred to the on-call Duty Officer.

Alternatively, residents are encouraged to report non-urgent issues, outside of office hours, through Council’s online customer service portal located on the website homepage.