Dog attacks are serious incidents that require immediate action. Whether you’re a victim, witness, or concerned about preventing attacks, here’s what you need to know.
If You Experience or Witness a Dog Attack
Immediate actions:
- Seek medical attention – Get treatment for yourself or veterinary care for your pet
- Report immediately – Call Council on (03) 6264 0300
- Document everything – Take photos, gather information, keep records
After hours reporting:
- Council’s after-hours service will document all information
- The on-call officer will contact you as soon as possible
- Don’t wait – report immediately even outside business hours
How to Report an Attack
Online reporting:
- Complete the Dog Attack Incident Report form (below)
- Download and complete the PDF forms if preferred
Critical information to gather:
- When & where: Exact date, time, and location (use smartphone maps if unsure)
- The dog: Breed, colour, sex, size, markings, registration disc, name tag, collar details
- The owner: Name, address, phone number, physical description, clothing
- Vehicle details: Registration number, make, model, colour (if owner drove away)
- Injuries: Description and photographs of injuries, location on body
- Evidence: Medical certificates, vet bills, doctor bills
Time is critical – especially if the offending dog is still at large and poses ongoing risk.
What Happens After You Report
Council takes dog attacks seriously. Here’s the investigation process:
- Initial contact: Authorised Council Officer contacts you for detailed information
- Statement taking: You may need to provide a statement, affidavit, or Statutory Declaration
- Evidence gathering: Photos of injuries, witness statements, other evidence collected
- Owner contact: The dog’s owner contacted for their account of the incident
- Assessment: Officer evaluates circumstances and evidence
- Action decision: Council determines appropriate response
Council’s Response Options
Depending on the severity, Council can:
- Issue a warning or advisory letter
- Issue an infringement notice
- Declare the dog to be a Dangerous Dog
- Seize and destroy the dog
- Take direct court action
Legal Responsibilities
Dog owners are responsible for their dog’s actions. Under the Dog Control Act 2000, it’s an offence for a dog to attack, harass, or chase a person, vehicle, or other animal.
Council powers:
- Authorised officers can seize and detain dogs suspected of attacks
- Dogs are held at Huon Valley Council’s Dog Pound during investigations
- Owners face legal consequences for their dog’s behaviour
Preventing Dog Attacks
Understanding why dogs bite helps prevent incidents. Common triggers include fear, pain, or confusion in social situations.
Prevention strategies:
- Early socialisation: Expose your dog to other dogs and people from a young age
- Avoid triggers: Recognise situations that make your dog nervous or anxious
- Training: Obedience classes help you understand your dog’s body language and communication
- Desexing: Entire dogs are typically more aggressive than sterilised dogs
- Veterinary advice: Consult your vet if your dog shows signs of aggression
Warning signs to watch for:
- Growling, snarling, or snapping
- Rigid body posture
- Raised hackles
- Intense staring
- Cowering or hiding
Emergency Self-Defence Rights
In extreme situations, you may legally restrain or destroy a dog if:
- The dog is attacking you personally
- You witness a dog attacking another person, animal, or assistance dog
- You’re a primary producer protecting livestock on your property
Important: You must notify Council within 14 working days and return any registration disc.
Always try to contact Council first – (03) 6264 0300 for non-emergency situations.
Report Forms
Please complete this form if you or your animal has experienced a dog-related incident and you’d like us to investigate. If you’d rather speak with someone, you can reach our Compliance team at (03) 6264 0300.