Kaipara District Council is working with police as investigations continue into the fatal dog attack that occurred on private property last week.

Police are the lead investigators in the event involving three dogs after a family member entered the dog owner’s private property. The dogs were immediately secured by council’s animal management following the incident and have since been euthanised.

Following the event Kaipara District Council Mayor Jonathan Larsen has acknowledged the impact on communities’ events like this have.

“This was a deeply upsetting and tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected. We have small, tightly knit communities here in Kaipara, and I know this will have a long-lasting impact on many people.”

He wanted to reassure people that the incident was isolated and not reflective of the general behaviour of dogs in Kaipara.

“While dog owners are legally responsible for their animals, the council will continue doing everything possible to reduce risks and support safe, responsible dog ownership across the district.”

The Dog Control Act 1996 outlines the requirements for enforcement and the uplift of any dog. Mayor Larsen says Kaipara District Council would welcome conversations about a review of the Act and strengthening the legislation, giving more enforcement powers to councils and harsher penalties.

Over the past two years, the council has taken a hardline approach to roaming dogs, resulting in a 65% reduction in wandering dog complaints. In the same period, 92% of dogs that had allegedly attacked were impounded, compared to 15% the previous year, and 80% of dogs responsible for attacks on stock were identified and detained. The number of registered dogs has also significantly increased across the district.

The animal management team regularly carries out patrols across the district. Prior to the event, staff had undertaken a number of proactive patrols in Kaihu to sight any roaming dogs and talk to residents.

Nick Bennetts, Kaipara District Council General Manager Service Delivery said the animal management team would continue its proactive work, including in the area where last week’s event occurred, and reiterated the importance of reporting dogs.

“We encourage anyone who sees dangerous or aggressive behaviour by any dogs to report it to our animal management team immediately. We are not able to act on third hand information. If it is safe to do so, taking a photo or video can help our officers to deal with non-compliance quickly and effectively.”

© Scoop Media