Dogs at large continue to be a problem in Ballan, according to a resident whose 75-year-old father was recently set upon by two dogs.
Gail Fiander said the incident happened last month after two light-brown bull mastiffs chased her cats into her backyard, before turning on her father.
He was not injured.
“My dad was very shaken up and angry. He wanted to know why these massive, vicious dogs were just wandering around,” Ms Fiander said.
“Even at his own house, if he leaves his front gate open, random dogs just go walking in.”
The incident followed a more serious attack on Ms Fiander’s son Tristan, 14, late last year by a medium-sized black dog.
“The dog was actually going for his face and he used his hands to defend himself so it bit his hand,” Ms Fiander said. “His hand was still swollen after a week and needed X-rays.
He’s a tall boy and was wearing a puffy vest, which probably kept him safe from the bites.”
Moorabool council chief executive Rob Croxford said two dog attacks and eight instances of dogs at large had been reported in the Ballan area since October last year.
Ms Fiander said neighbours were fed up with seeing unleashed dogs roaming the neighbourhood.
“There’s always a Jack Russell running around, and a few bull mastiffs that bark at people constantly,’’ she said. ‘‘It’s very scary.”
Mr Croxford said dog owners must ensure their animals were secure.
“We remind people to be vigilant about their dogs’ whereabouts and ensure dogs don’t stray onto neighbouring properties,” he said. “Council also encourages members of the public to report any sightings of roaming dogs.”
Ballan’s only off-lead area is at Caledonian Park, off Windle Street.
