MOORABOOL residents are being urged to be vigilant about their dogs’ whereabouts following another attack on sheep in Mount Egerton.
Council chief executive Rob Croxford said dog owners had an obligation to make sure their animals did not get the chance to attack livestock.
Mount Egerton farmer Eddie Davis lost 17 sheep over a three-day period last month.
Mr Davis said that in both overnight attacks two large, mixed-breed dogs “got in amongst the sheep and tore them apart”.
He said it wasn’t the first time he had lost sheep – the attacks were happening too often and were easily preventable.
“It’s very frustrating and annoying when you go to all that trouble, and these dogs come and destroy it all,” he said.
Bacchus Marsh’s Sergeant Stefan Rea said that under the Domestic Animals Act, owners faced sub- stantial fines and damages if their dogs attacked other animals.
“We work with council after the matter to ensure the proper penalties are given,” he said.
Dogs that have attacked can be destroyed or declared dangerous, resulting in very strict controls on living arrangements. By law, landowners are also authorised to kill dogs found wandering among livestock on their land.
Mayor Pat Toohey said he expected no resident would want their dogs to be responsible for attacks.
“We expect owners would take every step necessary to ensure their dogs are well contained to prevent this,” Cr Toohey said.
Mr Davis said the solution was simple.
“Keep your pets at home,” he said. “My job’s hard enough without having dogs kill my sheep. Aside from the cruelty to the poor sheep, it’s hard putting them down.”
The council is encouraging residents to report roaming dogs. Information to: 5366 7100 or 0400 501 696 (after hours).
