Courts to Decide if Dangerous Dog Owners Should Pay

Published 19 August 2021

Dangerous Dogs

Five different dangerous dog owners will all be taken to court by Moreton Bay Regional Council, and each could be fined nearly $15,000.

Mayor Peter Flannery said prosecution and punishment was necessary given the seriousness of the attacks, and as part of Council’s zero tolerance policy towards irresponsible dog ownership in the interest of community safety.

“These cases have all resulted in the death of an innocent family pet, which is absolutely heartbreaking for those local families,” said Mayor Flannery.

“These serious charges can only be enforced by prosecution, and Council is often left with no other choice but to take these matters to court.

“I want to recognise the resolve of my fellow councillors in today voting unanimously to take legal action in these matters and thank them for always putting the safety of our community first.

“What’s disappointing is that these senseless attacks are quite often avoidable if pet owners took appropriate measures to control their pets.

“I’m pleased to say 99% of our local pet owners do the right thing, but it’s the 1% that flout the rules.

“Many residents welcomed a new furry family member to their home during COVID and we hope by bringing these matters to court, we raise the awareness of the rules and expectations around safely keeping a pet.

“Council is committed to encouraging responsible pet ownership recently launching the ‘Pets in Public Spaces’ Education Program to pass on valuable tips to locals.

“These sessions are run regularly across the region and are designed to help residents understand the responsibilities of pet ownership. As a bonus, residents who attend can access free microchipping for their registered pets.”

In a separate matter, Council will pursue two penalty infringement notices through court after the recipient requested to have the matters heard by a Magistrate. 

The fines for both infringement notices total $1,334 and the recipient has elected to proceed to court following an unsuccessful internal review of their matter.

All six matters will now proceed to prosecution via the Magistrates Court.