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Legal consequences in the event of an attack on a person or another animal
You are liable if your dog attacks a person or animal outside your property, or someone trying to get to your front door. You are also liable if your dog attacks someone who has been invited onto your property.
An attack by your dog can lead to court action. If convicted, owners can face substantial fines. This is in addition to damages, which may potentially be thousands of dollars. In such situations, dogs are often ordered to be destroyed or declared dangerous. Strict ownership controls are imposed on dangerous dogs for the rest of their lives.
Call your local council if you have questions about your rights and responsibilities as a dog owner. Your council will also deal with concerns about wandering or nuisance dogs.
For general information about responsible pet ownership, and contact details for relevant pet organisations call 136 186 for the cost of a local call.
http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets/dog-care/confine-your-dog |
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