Focus must be on responsible dog ownership to reduce attacks

Focus must be on responsible dog ownership to reduce attacks

The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) says the high number of dog attacks in our community, including the case in Invercargill this week where two women were attacked by a pair of bull mastiff crosses, is very concerning and shows that a much stronger focus is needed to raise awareness of responsible dog ownership.

ACC data shows that it is dealing with about 12,500 dog bite claims each year and that this number has been steadily rising.

“The rate of dog attacks is completely unacceptable and a threat to community safety. The New Zealand dog owning community must carefully consider their responsibilities around dog ownership and the obligation to prevent harm to others,” says NZVA Companion Animal Society branch President Dr Cath Watson.

“While the majority of dog owners understand that they need to ensure that their dog is not a threat to members of the public or other animals, the high number of attacks show that many are not fulfilling their obligations as responsible dog owners.”

Dr Watson says that dog owners need to begin training and developing their dog’s socialisation skills at the puppy stage, when they are most receptive to this training.

“Dogs need to be exposed to different settings and people regularly and, critically, from a young age to ensure adequate socialisation. Training that rewards positive behaviour has been shown to be most effective, rather than techniques that involve dominance and punishment. These only increase the dog’s anxiety and aggressive tendencies.”

There are some basic actions owners can take to prevent aggressive behaviour – daily exercise, environmental stimulation and ensuring the dog is not confined all day.

She says educating people, especially children, about how to stay safe around dogs is also essential.

“There are a number of rules about how to approach and interact with a dog which parents need to explain and enforce in their children. There is a lot of information on keeping safe around dogs from many sources including SPCA, The Yellow Dog Project, veterinary clinics and local councils.”

Dr Watson says that while some breeds of dogs feature more often in reported dog attacks, any breed can attack if it is hurt, feels afraid or is teased.

“Ultimately whether a dog attacks or not will have most to do with how it has been educated and socialised by its owner.”

She says prospective dog owners must think very carefully about whether they can meet their obligations.

“Owning a dog involves a responsibility which is ongoing and some underestimate what’s involved in exercising, training and socialising a dog. While veterinarians see first hand how wonderfully a dog can contribute to a family’s happiness we always urge people to think very carefully before they take on a dog.”

”Veterinarians can offer advice on different dog breeds that best suit the needs of the owner, and can provide referrals to experts who deal with dog behaviour.”

Dr Watson says the NZVA supports rigorous enforcement of the Dog Control Act, which provides robust measures to deal with dangerous dogs, such as dog officers being able to seize dogs.

“We’re also pleased to see courts being tougher on owners of dangerous dogs, particularly those that train their dogs to be aggressive or fail to provide for their needs adequately.”

“However, the number one priority must be prevention. All organisations that work with dogs, including local councils, must consistently promote the message about responsible dog ownership and the New Zealand community needs to own that responsibility.”

“Veterinarians will continue to play a key role in promoting these messages to their clients, and wider community.”

ENDS

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