Pet owners are being reminded not to leave their dog unattended, including tied up outside busy shopping areas.
Wyndham council’s city operations director, Stephen Thorpe, said that the city’s rangers “have received an increased number of complaints regarding dogs being left tied up and unattended outside shops”.
“Complaints have ranged from dogs barking at passers-by to dogs being teased or distressed,” Mr Thorpe said.
“When rangers attend these types of complaints we try to locate the owner of the dog and will stay with the dog where possible to speak to the owner about the risks associated with leaving dogs unattended.
“We have also had residents arrive at the Wyndham City Pound with a dog on a lead, saying it was found tied to a pole near a shop or they found it wandering down the street with the lead or harness still attached after it had become untied.”
“Three dogs were brought to the pound in January with leads and harnesses still attached.”
“These incidents can be stressful for the dog and their owner.”
“If you cannot keep your dog with you when you need to go out, it is best to leave your dog at home or have someone take care of it.”
Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, it illegal to leave dogs tied outside shops unsupervised.
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/pets-animals/animal-registration-regulations/registering-your-pet and www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/pets-animals/register-reunite
