Wyndham Domestic Animal Management Plan 2017-2021
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Wyndham Domestic Animal Management Plan 2017—2021 Under the provisions of The Domestic Animals Act 1994 (the Act) Council is required to develop a Domestic Animal Management (DAM) Plan renewed every 4 years. This Plan outlines the services, programs and policies to address the administration of the Act and the management of dogs and cats in the community. 3 October 2017
Domestic Animal Management Plan 1 Introduction 2 Training of authorised Officers 3 Registration and Identification 4 Nuisance 5 Dog Attacks 6 Dangerous, Menacing and Restricted Breed Dogs 7 Overpopulation and High Euthanasia Rates 8 Domestic Animal Business 9 Other Matters 10 Annual Review of the Plan and Annual Reporting
Domestic Animal Management Plan 2017-2021
Under Section 68A of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 with a view to determining whether
(DAA), every Council must prepare a domestic animal further orders or local laws dealing with
management plan, as follows: the management of dogs and cats in the
municipal district are desirable; and
1. Every Council must, in consultation with the
Secretary (of the Department of Economic provide for the review of any other
Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources), matters related to the management of
prepare at 4 year intervals a domestic animal dogs and cats in the Council's municipal
management plan. district that it thinks necessary; and
2. A domestic animal management plan prepared provide for the periodic evaluation of any
by a Council must: program, service, strategy or review
outlined under the plan.
set out a method for evaluating whether
3. Every Council must:
the animal control services provided by the
Council in its municipal district are
review its domestic animal management
adequate to give effect to the
plan annually and, if appropriate, amend
requirements of this Act and the
the plan;
regulations;
provide the Secretary with a copy of the
outline programs for the training of
plan and any amendments to the plan; and
authorised officers to ensure that they can
properly administer and enforce the publish an evaluation of its
requirements of this Act in the Council's implementation of the plan in its annual
municipal district; and report.
outline programs, services and strategies
which the Council intends to pursue in its “...Our vision for a healthy, liveable city is a
municipal district: place that:
Is future focused and plans for sustainable
a. to promote and encourage the development;
responsible ownership of dogs and Embraces diversity, and is welcoming and
cats; inclusive;
Consists of connected, vibrant
b. to ensure that people comply with
neighbourhoods that provide for the
this Act, the regulations and any
cultural, social, economic and recreational
related legislation;
needs of the community;
c. to minimise the risk of attacks by Encourages a healthy and active lifestyle;
dogs on people and animals; Supports the diverse educational needs of
d. to address any over-population and the community;
high euthanasia rates for dogs and Empowers the community to lead….”
cats;
Kelly Grigsby, Chief Executive Officer
e. to encourage the registration and Wyndham City Plan 2017-2021
identification of dogs and cats;
f. to minimise the potential for dogs
and cats to create a nuisance; and
g. to effectively identify all dangerous
dogs, menacing dogs and restricted
breed dogs in that district and to
ensure that those dogs are kept in
compliance with this Act and the
regulations.
provide for the review of existing orders
made under this Act and local laws that
relate to the Council's municipal district
The City of Wyndham is located on the western edge of
Melbourne, between the metropolitan area and
Geelong. Wyndham covers an area of 542km and
features 27.4 km of coastline bordering Port Phillip to the
east. As a meeting place for people of the Kulin nations,
Wyndham City has a rich and diverse Aboriginal cultural
heritage.
The City of Wyndham has an estimated population of
222,656 for 2016. As the largest growing municipality
Victoria wide (5.7% and 12,106 persons)1, Wyndham is
characterised by its strategically placed location with
excellent logistic connections to air and sea ports. The
City also offers intensive agriculture at Werribee South,
major retail precincts and the Werribee Park tourism
precinct - one of the largest and most frequently visited
tourism destinations in metropolitan Melbourne. Aim of the Domestic Animal Management Plan
Sustained population growth places significant pressure The aim of this Plan is to support Council’s mission
on Wyndham’s liveability. Important elements of through the effective management of domestic animals
liveability include strong communities, good planning within the City.
and urban design, community infrastructure, accessible
Council provides resources through its annual business
and efficient transport and a healthy environment. planning and budget processes to implement this Plan.
Council is vigilant in striving to match its actions to meet
the changing needs of the community and to maintain Wyndham’s Animal Management Unit delivers the Plan
that liveability. by providing a customer-focused service that strikes a
balance between community expectations and
Wyndham is experiencing growth across all age groups. compliance obligations, through guidance, advice and
Children and young people form the largest population responsible enforcement.
group in Wyndham with 50,638 people under the age of
2
15 years . In 2016, 4,518 babies were born to
3 Process applied in developing this Plan
Wyndham parents, which is around 86 babies born every The Domestic Animal Management Plan has been
week. Although residents over 65 years of age currently developed on the outcomes and learnings from the
previous Plan. This has included a review of existing
form a relatively modest part of the Wyndham
data in areas such as complaints, dog attacks,
population, they are forecast to be the fastest growing registrations and impoundments. Community feedback
age group in Wyndham between 2016 and 20364. and consultation with key stakeholders including
————————— veterinarians, dog trainers and other service providers
1 has also guided its development.
Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016, Estimated Resident Population.
2
Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016, Population by Age and Sex of Australia
2015, Cat.3235.0
3
Maternal and Child Health Service Wyndham City Council 2016, Birth
Notifications Received
4
ID Consulting 2016, Wyndham Population and Household Forecasts 2016
The following information is based on 2015/2016 data
DOGS CATS
Number of Registered Dogs 19,366 Number of Registered Cats 6,050
Number of Dangerous Dogs 16
Average percentage of Registered Cats 95%
Number of Restricted Breed Dogs 11 Desexed
Number of Menacing Dogs 26 Number of Cats Impounded annually 1585
Average number of Dogs Impounded annually 978 Percentage of Impounded Cats 10%
identified by tag/chip
Average percentage of Impounded Dogs 82%
identified by tag/chip Average number of cats reunited with 8%
Average number of dogs reunited with 85% owners
owners
Registered Domestic Animal Businesses 14
Average number of cat trap cages hired per annum 262
Average yearly Animal control complaints received/attended to 3,566
Number of Authorised Officers:
Animal Management Team—Officers 6
Pound Attendants / Assistant 2
Animal Management and Pound Services Annual Budget 2015/2016
Revenue (registration, permits, fines and charges etc) $1,340,294
Expenses (staffing, state levy and pound services etc) $1,600,098
Net Position (+ve = fav, -ve = unfav) -$259,804
Section 68(A)(2)(b) of the DAA: Outline programs for the training of authorised officers to ensure that they
can properly administer and enforce the requirements of this Act in the Council's municipal district.
The City Amenity and Safety Department is responsible for animal management operations under the
Domestic Animals Act 1994, other applicable State Laws and Council’s Local Laws.
All Animal Management officers are competent and trained perform the required duties under the
Legislation. This includes a mix of practical “hands on” in-house training, through to structured courses and
industry applicable workshops. The training also includes changes in community needs and legislation.
An annual training program is developed (see
next page) for each officer. Officers are Summary
identified individually within the matrix with The training and skills matrix is reviewed and updated on a
training needs assessed/developed and quarterly basis to ensure that Council meets its legislative
implemented as required. responsibility and effectively meets community expectations.
Our Plans
Objective 2.1: Ensure all officers are adequately trained
Activity When Evaluation
To identify any mandatory, role specific and Current and Items identified and
individual officer training needs to be included in Ongoing placed in the matrix.
Animal Management Training Matrix. All actions completed for
relevant competency
Objective 2.2: Annual review of internal processes with staff, to ensure consistent application of
investigation, compliance and enforcement processes.
Activity When Evaluation
Review investigation, compliance and By July Annually—updated procedures, and officer
enforcement processes to annually guidelines finalised and approved training
accommodate legal and other changes undertaken and officers competent.
to ensure operational and service
Officers using appropriate enforcement in
consistency.
circumstances where acceptable outcomes
and compliance are not being achieved
through an educative approach.
Authorised Officer Training - Basic Current 2017 Planned
Microchip implantation training : Completed
Officer 1
Officer 2
Industry training: All officers Completed Refresher courses as required
Animal handling
Animal assessment
Aggressive dog handling
Animal handling in a Pound environment
Emergency First Aid for domestic animals
Statement Taking / Brief preparation
Evidence presentation / prosecution skills
Computer skills
Loading / unloading animals domestic/livestock
Court etiquette training
Court warrants, issue and filing
Conflict resolution
OH&S training: All officers Completed Refresher courses as required
Animal control equipment use and care
Animal handling induction
Animal handling practical skills/practice
Manual handling
Emergency evacuation procedures
Dealing with aggressive customers
Conflict resolution
Client interaction
Council policies and procedures under OH&S
Legislation
DEDJTR ‘s (Department of Economic Development, All officers to attend on a rotational As offered
Jobs, Transport and Resources) Bureau of Animal basis
Welfare – training and information seminars e.g.
Dangerous / restricted / menacing dogs updating
of changes in Legislation: All officers
Council Induction program for new staff : All As required As required
officers
Municipal Association of Victoria and Local Annually as offered by MAV and As offered by MAV and LGPro
Government Professionals – training and LGPro
information days : All officers
Departmental training/skills and assessment Completed Annual Review
matrix for all activities undertaken: All officers
Family Violence Awareness Training: All officers Training to be completed by June
2018Section 68A(2)(c)(v) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies to encourage the registration
and identification of dogs and cats [also addresses 68A(2)(a),(c)(i),(c)(ii),(d),(f)]
The most effective way to improve animal Council’s website and social media is utilized to
management and compliance with the DAA is to reunite pets with their owners.
maximise the number of domestic animals that are
Encouraging pet identification
registered and identifiable.
Random door knocking audit for unregistered
Council’s current identification and registration
animals.
activities include:
Major pet expo promoting discounted micro-
Follow up annual registration renewals by:
chipping of animals.
Sending reminder notices after 10 April;
Issue pet owners with a lifetime registration
Conducting a telephone audit; and
number and tag.
Conducting Door knock activities.
Maintain and update the animals’
All animals released from the Pound must be
registration database.
chipped and registered.
Free registration for the first period for all new
Reward system for responsible pet ownership
pets.
entitles an owner to additional reduced fees for
84Y agreements with Vets to reunite animals
registration and impound release fees.
with their owners.
Animals currently registered and with no
compliance issues will be returned from the field Council will continue to encourage people within the
community to microchip and register their pets.
to their registered owners. These pets will not
be impounded.
Our current data 2012-2016
Dogs Impounded and Identified 2012 - 2016
1,311 1,256
1,400 1,232
1,200 1,010 978
918
879
1,000 802
800
600
400
200
0
2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
Dogs Impounded Dogs IdentifiedCats Impounded and Identified 2012 - 2016
1,585
1,496
1,600 1,378 1,412
1,400
1,200
1,000
800
600
400 110 127 165 159
200
0
2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
Cats Impounded Cats Identified
The comparison in the number of dogs entering the pound over the past five years has steadily reduced with the
number of identifiable animals increasing by percentage each year. This indicates that the work being done to
educate the community on responsible pet ownership has been effective. Continued efforts will be made to
increase the number of cat registrations over the next period.
From August 2016, Council introduced an incentive scheme to encourage and increase voluntary animal
registration compliance. The scheme allows owners of animals that have not previously been registered with
Wyndham Council to register for free until the next renewal period. Since the introduction of this scheme
community initiated registrations has seen an increase on average of 30 animals per week without Council contact.
Our current Education/Promotion Activities related information to all new animal owners.
Information on website, media articles and social Promote and register pets at Pet Expo events.
media relating to the benefits of registration and
Attendance and involvement at the Dispute
identification of pets for quicker reunification with
Settlement Centre of Victoria’s “Neighbours rights
their owners.
responsibilities and resolutions forums.
Registration and identification information
Information seminars on responsible pet
brochures supplied to all local vets, community
ownership.
centres, libraries and dog training facilities.
Patrol of “hot spot” areas for dogs off lead and
Supporting DEDJTR’s “Who’s for Cat’s campaign”.
other compliance issues.
Vet incentives;
Pop up road shows at off lead areas during peak
Free registration for new/unregistered pets. times.
Participation in the desexing program with Educate pet owners in rural areas of their
discounted vouchers subsidised by Council responsibilities under the Domestic Animals Act in
for cats and dogs. relation to nuisance animals, dogs and livestock.
84Y agreements with vets to allow for the Working with other Council departments to ensure
reunification of pets with their owners. elderly pet owners are supported.
Use media releases, paid advertising and Council Ongoing support of the dog walking program.
newsletter (Wyndham News) to advise residents of
Investigate pro-rata registration.
registration requirements.
Educating cat owners and stray/unowned cat
Distribution of information packs and animal
feeders.Our current Compliance Activities Issue registration renewal notices annually and
follow up for compliance.
Attendance to animal related complaints
Regularly update/audit registration database (e.g.
Follow up of non-renewal of registration
notification of deceased animal, change of
and unregistered animals.
address, change of owner) for data accuracy too
Phone call. ensure owners are not distressed or annoyed by
Visit to property. receiving unnecessary or incorrect renewal
notices.
Patrols of municipality for stray and wandering
dogs and livestock. Ensure all seized and impounded animals are
identified and registered to their owner prior to
Random unregistered animal audits of the their release.
municipality.
Follow up on registration for animals notified as
sold by domestic animal businesses.
Summary
By encouraging residents to register their pets, we are
able to provide an efficient way of reuniting pets with
their owners, to reduce anxiety to animals and their
owners.
Objective 3.1: Improve the ongoing accuracy of Council’s registration database by cross referencing with
microchip data.
Activity When Evaluation
Undertake a sample review of newly Annually Demonstrate Council’s pet registration
microchipped dogs and cats in database can be accurately cross
Wyndham by contacting registration referenced with microchip registries.
microchip registries. Check all animals
are also listed on Council’s pet Demonstrate increase in numbers of pets
registration database and follow up registered with Council following
those that are not. microchip registry cross referencing.
Objective 3.2: Encourage registration numbers to increase by 400 new dog registrations and 250 new cat
registrations each year.
Activity When Evaluation
Review the existing animal 2018 Review annual increase in registration
registration process with the numbers.
intention of providing the customer
greater choice for when and how Customer satisfaction surveys.
they register their animals by
investigating on-line registration
options.Objective 3.2: Encourage registration numbers to increase by 400 new dog registrations and 250 new cat
registrations each year (cont’d).
Activity When Evaluation
Conduct random audits throughout Annually Review annual increase in registration
the municipality. numbers.
Promote the audit process through Number of unregistered and
social and local media. unidentifiable animals reported during
door knocks activities.
Objective 3.3: Investigate the possibility of pro-rata registration in the event there is no other discount or
incentive.
Activity When Evaluation
Investigate the possibility of pro-rata registration for Annually Review annual increase
first time registrations in the event there is no other in registration numbers.
discount or incentive on offer.
Objective 3.4: Encourage dog clubs and trainers to promote the benefits of pet registration.
Activity When Evaluation
Meet and discuss with dog clubs and trainers in the Annually Feedback from dog
area to promote the benefits of registration. clubs and trainers on
uptake from clients.
Objective 3.5: Improve community understanding of Responsible Pet ownership
Activity When Evaluation
Develop a targeted approach to educating and Annual Communication plan
informing the community about responsible pet developed and
ownership. implementation
commenced.
Distribution of pamphlets, scheduled seminars on
issues on pet ownership.
Promote the benefits of registration through media,
marketing and communications.
Increased engagement with registered pet owners Ongoing Considered in
through a pet related community newsletter and development of
digital communication. communication plans.
Provide tailored information sessions and Ongoing Participant attendance,
communication on choosing the right pet for owner’s feedback, registrations.
lifestyle, the real costs of pet ownership and
socialising, and basic dog obedience skills.Section 68A(2)(c)(vi) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies to minimise the potential for dogs
and cats to create a nuisance [also addresses 68A(2)(a),(c)(i),(c)(ii),(d),(f)]
the problem entirely. Council has procedures and
policies for dealing with barking dog complaints, such
Council is guided by the DAA, State and Local Laws to as a dog barking diary, and educational references
ensure that all members of the community are and sessions.
complying with the current legislation. Dogs not being adequately confined to their premises
or at large, are also considered a nuisance and a
Council Officers aim to inform, educate and hazard to motorists and the public in general. In
communicate to the community their pet ownership these instances, Council utilises the Local Law and
responsibilities. If these approaches are not DAA legislation to hold animal owners accountable
successful, officers use letters, notices, infringements, for such nuisances.
referral to the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
and sometimes court summons to ensure compliance
with the law. Officers can also use Building, Town There is a perception that the number of unowned
Planning and Environmental Health requirements to cats in the City is increasing. It is difficult
effectively deal with more complex issues that relate Cats to identify the actual numbers, but
to animal ownership. unowned cats whether domestic or feral,
are a nuisance in the community and a
Our Current Data risk to owned cats through the spread of disease
(such a feline aids) and injuries from cat fights. Cat
owners are encouraged to be responsible pet owners
Barking dog complaints have decreased rather than “semi pet owners” who feed cats but
Dogs in recent years with 93 reports in the then take no further responsibility for the health,
2015 and 70 in 2016. This can be wellbeing, identification and registration of the
attributed to greater owner awareness with animal.
education readily available from Council, vets and
Council utilises the Local Laws and DAA legislation to
State Government websites. The increase in
control these matters.
complaints in 2015 lead to an intensive awareness
campaign. This, in conjunction with education and
information provided to all dog owners at time of Our Orders, Local Laws, Council Policies and
release from the Pound, has reduced the number of Procedures
nuisance related complaints.
Council’s Community Amenity Local Law (2015)
Excessive barking is caused by, but not limited to: provides additional requirements to assist with
Separation anxiety animal management. These include:
Control of nuisance animals.
Boredom
Restrictions and controls on the number of
External stimulants (passers-by, wildlife, other
dogs barking, cats) animals allowed to be kept on a residential
Territorialism (persons visiting the premises property.
Animal husbandry.
like the postman)
Conditions on excess animal permits for any
Communication (please pay attention to me)
extra animals to be de-sexed.
The creation of permits and notices to comply
Information available on DEDJTR’s website: http:/ /
agriculture.v ic.gov .au/ pet s/ dogs/ training- to manage animal issues.
Provision to prosecute in the Magistrates Court
and- behavioural-problems/barking
when required.
Mandatory de-sexing for cats.
In most instances the owner is not at home to hear or
stop the excessive barking, or may be tuned out toThe relevant sections of the Local Law and Domestic Promotion of Who’s for Cat’s campaign.
Animals Act are:
Council run forums on responsible pet
Section 157: Keeping of Animals. ownership and selection of the appropriate pet.
Section 161: Animal Buildings and Cleanliness.
Publication and distribution of pamphlets
Section 164: Animal Noise.
relating to nuisance animals (both in house and
Section 166: Requirements Applying to Dogs.
DEDJTR information) http://
Part 5 Roads and Council Land: Obstruction and
agriculture.vic.gov.au/pets/cats
behaviour;
including Animal Waste. Attendance and involvement at the Dispute
(DAA) Section 25: Cats found at large. Settlement Centre of Victoria’s “Neighbours
(DAA) Section 10A: Registration requirements. rights responsibilities and resolutions forums,
which include our CALD communities.
A complete copy of Wyndham City Council’s Distribution of Councils free dog run DVD which
Community Amenity Local Law (2015) and Domestic is a step by step educational guide to setting up
Animals Act 1994 can be found at: a dog friendly dog run.
https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/about- Specialist advice provided to residents with
council/your-council/plans-policies- problem pets e.g. excessive barking, anxiety
strategies/community-compliance-and-safety-plans (thunder storms) etc.
Provision of barking dog diaries to affected
http: / /www.parliament.v ic.gov .au/ static/ premises.
www.legislation.vic.gov.au-lawtoday.html
Education to cat owners on Wandering Cats and
DAA Orders: the nuisance effect their cats can have on
Council can make orders under the DAA to deal with neighbours. “It’s your cat, it’s your
animal control issues. Council currently has a “Dog off responsibility”.
Lead Order” which identifies the dog off lead areas Educate cat owner on how to confine their cats
within the municipality. This also includes the to their property utilising cat runs and the like at
conditions of use in place for dog owners using these a low cost.
designated areas.
Our current Compliance Activities
Council also has a “Cat Curfew” order in place where Recording and attending all Animal nuisance
cats are to be confined to their property between and wandering complaints which are then
10.00pm and 6.00am. An Order for mandatory cat tracked on a database for resolution and to
desexing is also a part of any new registration detect repeat offenders.
requirement.
Patrols of the municipality.
Revision of Councils Local Laws and orders: Issuing Notices to Comply under the legislation
The local laws, orders and all strategies related to the to gain compliance.
management of domestic animals are dealt with and Issuing Infringements and Summons where
reviewed on an ongoing basis through the Annual applicable.
Business Plan and any other State Government
Investigation of returned barking dog diaries.
requirement.
Patrol and enforcement of the designated off
These reviews are undertaken with the required lead areas and “hot spots” locations.
Council and community consultation as required
Increase enforcement and education on
under the Legislation.
trapping trespassing cats on private property.
Industrial/commercial premises trapping
Our current Education/Promotion Activities program conducted on an as needs basis.
Council’s Animal Management Officers attend
when requested at any premises or complaint. Scheduled trapping during cat curfew times.
Information on website relating to nuisance. Utilise the Lost Dogs Home mobile desexing
van.
Impounding any wandering dogs or dogs not Summary
becoming a nuisance or hazard. The current levels of education and enforcement aims to
strike a balance to effectively gain compliance and
reduce nuisance complaints within Wyndham.
Objective 4.1: Reduce cat nuisance complaints.
Activity When Evaluation
Provide educational material to owners on release Current and ongoing Number of booklets and
of cats to create cat enclosures. flyers distributed and from
where.
Increase cat trapping by assisting residents with Ongoing Number of traps delivered
dealing with cat trespass / nuisance problems by
Number of cats impounded
dropping off and picking up cat traps for use on their
property through the Municipal Pound at no cost to Number of cats with I.D.
residents.
Random trapping during curfew hours. Number of Trespass Notice
Review cat curfew trapping process to increase and/or Infringements.
accountability on cat owners.
Investigate cats in our parks and waterways to Ongoing Number of cats
protect wildlife. impounded.
Legal recourse for injuries/damage created by 2019
trespassing cats in line with dog attacks
Objective 4.2: Reduce dog nuisance complaints.
Activity When Evaluation
Use barking dog complaint/investigation policy/manual Current & Policy reviewed randomly
Ongoing to ensure effectiveness
Include information regarding confinement, barking, Current & Information packs to be
dogs at large etc. in registration information packs. ongoing sent out each year to new
animal owners in the
municipality.
Random patrols afterhours for dogs being walked off
lead in residential areas.
Proactive patrols of off lead areas during peak times.Section 68A(2)(c)(iii) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies to minimise the risk of
attacks by dogs on people and animals [also addresses 68A(2)(a),(c)(i),(c)(ii),(d),(f)]
Council has a strict enforcement program in relation to Management Plans in place to protect the community.
wandering dogs in the municipality, which is effectively
A complete copy of Wyndham City Council’s
enforced by:
Community Amenity Local Law (2015) can be found at:
Attendance during business hours to all stray/ https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/about-council/your-
wandering dogs within the set response times. council/plans-policies-strategies/community-
An after-hours emergency response service. compliance-and-safety-plans
All dogs reported showing aggressive tendencies
will be dealt with as a matter of priority. Our current Education/Promotion Activities
All alleged dog attacks are investigated and legal Information on website relating to dog attacks
action instigated as required. and what action to take.
Declaring dogs as dangerous or menacing as
Council run forums on responsible pet ownership
required under the DAA. and selecting the right dog for your lifestyle.
The controls which are in place under
Publication and distribution of pamphlets relating
State, Local Laws and orders are effectively
to animals (both in house and DEDJTR
enforced. information).
The purpose of these measures is to ensure as far as is Promote and provide registration and
practicable the risk to the community is controlled, information at Pet Expo event, microchipping
reduced or removed completely. days.
Attendance and involvement at the Dispute
Our Orders, Local Laws, Council Policies and
Settlement Centre of Victoria’s “Neighbours
Procedures
rights responsibilities and resolutions forums”,
Council’s Community Amenity Local Law (2015) which include our CALD communities.
provides additional requirements to assist with animal
Information readily available from DEDJTR’s
management. These include:
website:
http://agriculture.vic.gov.au/pets/dogs/dog-attacks-
Section 166: Requirements Applying to Dogs dangerous-and-menacing-dogs/dog-attacks-faqs
A person keeping a dog (other than a dangerous dog Our current Compliance Activities
guarding non-residential premises) on land must
ensure that the dog does not behave in an offensive or Investigation of all dog attacks and safety
threatening manner by physically striking, biting, concerns e.g. dogs acting aggressively.
chewing or jumping at any person or other animal Patrols of municipality.
beyond the boundary fence of the land on which it is
kept. Declaring dogs as menacing, dangerous or
restricted as required.
This Local Law is in place to ensure dogs behave Provide After Hours Emergency for dog attacks,
appropriately even when in their own backyards and dogs acting aggressively.
neighbours do not have to fear being in their own
Issuing Infringements and Summons where
backyard. The community should also feel safe in
applicable.
walking their dogs past properties knowing they are
safe from attack and this Local Law assists with this. Seizing all dogs involved in dog attacks resulting
in a serious injury (a serious injury is defined in
This local Law allows Officers to put Animal
the Domestic Animals Act 1994 as:
An injury requiring medical or veterinary
attention in the nature of: A broken bone; or
A laceration; or
A partial or total loss of sensation or
Summary
An injury requiring cosmetic surgery.
Death of a person or animal. Council will continue with its strict enforcement
approach to all reported dog attacks and
aggressive dog complaints in the municipality.
Objective 5.1: Encourage reporting of dog attacks in the community.
Activity When Evaluation
‘Pop up’ road shows at rural locations to educate on September 2018 Reduction in attacks on
the issues with pets and livestock in farming livestock by roaming pets.
communities.
Improve public awareness of what a dog attack is Ongoing Review the number of
and how to report these matters to Council for complaints received by Council
investigation. in relation to previous years as
this is an ongoing situation.
Distribute information on what happens in the event
of a dog attack.
Increase awareness of the possible penalties and February 2018 Develop educational flyers to
actions that may result in the event of an attack on distribute to rural areas.
livestock in farming communities.
Increase street patrols to limit wandering dogs so as Ongoing Assess animal behaviour on
not to escalate into dog attacks. impoundment.
Objective 5.2: Overall, decrease the time lapse from attacks actually happening to being reporting to Council.
Activity When Evaluation
Publicise the importance of informing Council when Ongoing Recording mechanisms to ask
an attack actually takes place. and show time from attack to
reporting, which can then be
Utilise website, media/social media and pamphlets.
evaluated to show
improvement in times.Section 68A(2)(c)(vii) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies to effectively identify all dangerous
dogs, menacing dogs and restricted breed dogs in that district and to ensure that those dogs are kept in
compliance with this Act and the regulations [also addresses 68A(2)(a), (c)(i),(c)(ii),(d),(f)]
Our current Compliance Activities
Attend all complaints in relation to suspected
Our current data Dangerous, Restricted Breed and Menacing
dogs.
Wyndham City currently has 16 dangerous dogs, 26
menacing dogs and 11 restricted breed dogs in the Patrols of the municipality and hot spot
Municipality. locations.
Inspect all “declared” dogs’ enclosures,
The level of compliance has always been very high. Restricted Breed and Menacing dogs’
However, these dogs will continue to be properties for compliance and correct signage
monitored with regular random inspections and where kept annually and on random occasions.
individual management plans.
Declaration included on all registration forms
Council Officers ensure that the owners of these dogs as to status of animal under restricted breed
are adhering to the requirements by: legislation.
Update and maintain DEDJTR database.
Maintaining the State Government data base.
Patrol industrial areas for non-registered guard
Conducting inspections and random audits. dogs (dangerous dogs by definition).
Investigating complaints.
Cross reference all offending dog attack dogs
Prosecution of non-compliant owners.
with the DEDJTR database to ascertain if they
Audits of industrial /residential areas for non- are a “declared” dog in another locality.
declared dogs.
Local Law states that a dog declared menacing
Identify declared dogs which are impounded.
must display a sign at all entrances to the
Our current Education/Promotion Activities property.
Information on website (Council and DEDJTR)
Information via pamphlets Summary
Information at pet expo days.
Council officers’ conduct inspections of all existing
restricted, dangerous and menacing dogs on an
ongoing basis.
Objective 6.1: Ensure high level of compliance is continuing.
Activity When Evaluation
Continue inspection regime of all declared, menacing Current and ongoing Nil prosecutions required.
and restricted breed dogs with zero tolerance for non
-compliance.
Cross reference all offending dog attack dogs with the Current and ongoing Nil dogs confirmed on
DEDJTR database to ascertain if they are a “declared” database check.
dog.Section 68A(2)(c)(iv) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies to address any over-population
and high euthanasia rates for dogs and cats [also addresses 68A(2)(a),(c)(i),(c)(ii),(d),(f)
Our current data local vets to provide discounted desexing for
cats to people who agree to take ownership of
Rates of returning/re-housing dogs
unowned cats. This will include a Council
The municipal pound impounds 980 dogs per annum,
contribution and will be within a nominated
and on average 85% of those animals are reunited with
period.
their owners. On average 65% of these animals are
identifiable by microchip or registration tag. Placing all lost animals on the Council’s website.
Council subsidised desexing for cats and dogs for
Rates of returning/rehousing cats those who are not eligible for any other State
The municipal pound impounds 1585 cats per annum, concession.
and on average 7% of those animals are reunited with
their owners. Of these animals 10% are identifiable by Council subsidised micro chipping at Council run
microchip or registration tag. Pet Expos.
Working with other departments to identify “hot
Of the cats and kittens being impounded each year, spot” areas for feral/unowned cats in our parks
approximately 75% are either feral, semi feral or wild and waterways.
with kittens (four to six per litter).
Our current Compliance Activities
There has been an increase in the number of identified Undertake an intensive project to greatly reduce
cats entering the pound from the target of 7% set in unowned cats in the Wyndham municipality.
the last DAM plan to the current 10%. Council’s
current registration and desexing incentives in Investigate reports of animal hoarding.
conjunction with local vets has contributed to the Investigate reports of unauthorised back yard
improvements. breeders.
Provision of cat traps delivered and collected by
Our current Education/Promotion Activities
authorised officers.
Dog, cat & kitten adoption to assist in the
Increase trapping in residential/Industrial and
reduction of euthanasia rates.
environmentally sensitive areas by providing a
Utilise foster groups. service that the traps are set up and removed by
Description and photo of all unidentified animals an Authorised Officer.
on Council Lost Pet webpage and utilise social Council run forums on responsible pet
media. ownership and selecting the right dog for your
Increase public education in relation to the lifestyle. Desexing information is part of these
negative impacts of feeding unowned cats which forums.
contributes to the breeding of stray cats and Notices issued to residents continuing to feed un
Local Law provisions prohibiting feeding and un- -owned animals.
owned animal.
Promote the DEDJTR “Who’s for Cats” campaign Summary
which encourages people to either take
ownership of strays or to assist in their removal There is a continuing increase in the number of
from the stray cat population. pets reunited with their owners and consequently a
Mandatory cat desexing for all new reduction in the number of euthanized animals.
registrations.
Cat curfew from 10.00pm - 6.00am.
The development of a joint-partnership withObjective 7.1: Raise awareness about semi-owned cat population
Activity When Evaluation
Implement “Who’s for cats?” education campaign Current and ongoing Measure number and type
in local area. Utilise the following resources: of education materials
distributed.
"Are you feeding a bigger problem?" (Who's
for Cats? campaign fact sheet) - distribution Record the number of
throughout the municipality, placement on campaign queries received
website by council.
Template media release - for publication in Record the number of semi
local newspapers owned cats handed into
local pound / shelter.
Print ads - for publication in local newspapers
Number of media stories
TV commercial file - can be used on website
published.
Promotions to encourage people to take full
Measure uptake on any
ownership of cats e.g. discount desex/
promotions to encourage
microchip/vaccinate offers, free products
people to take ownership of
cats.
Objective 7.2: Maximise the reclaim and re-homing rates for cats and dogs.
Activity When Evaluation
Contact all parties listed on microchip database and Ongoing Increase in reclaim rates.
utilise internet to assist in locating animal owner.
Objective 7.3: Continue to educate the community on the benefits of de-sexing domestic pets.
Activity When Evaluation
Explore the possibility of extending the current 2019 Public consultation.
de-sexing order to include dogs.
Objective 7.4: Explore the utilisation of foster and rescue groups.
Activity When Evaluation
Review existing agreements with foster and rescue Annually Existing agreements
groups regarding re-homing. remain and new ones
gained.Section 68A(2)(c)(ii) of the DAA: Outline programs, services and strategies which the Council intends to pursue in
its municipal district to ensure that people comply with this Act, the regulations and any related legislation [also
addresses 68A(2)(a),(c)(i),(d),(f)]
Our current Compliance Activities
Register all identified domestic animal
Our current data businesses within the Municipality.
The City of Wyndham currently has 13 registered Conduct annual inspections/audits of each
Domestic Animal Businesses as follows: premise.
Boarding Establishments 4 Follow up any non-compliance.
Pet Shops 9 Liaise with other units within Council to provide
advice when planning applications for domestic
Pound/Shelter 1 animals businesses are received to ensure
appropriate conditions are placed on
Our current Education/Promotion Activities construction, operations etc.
Investigate and act on complaints received.
Inspections of existing and new Domestic
Animal Businesses in line with mandatory
relevant code of practice. Summary
Ensure all relevant Domestic Animal Businesses Council will continue to register and investigate
are advised of any review of the code of practice
reported domestic animal businesses to ensure
for their type of business
compliance.
Provide education that a Domestic Animal
Business is not limited to commercial activities.
Objective 8.1: Identify and register all Domestic Animal Businesses (DAB) in the municipality.
Activity When Evaluation
Identify all businesses that should be registered Annually Compare number of
DABs in the municipality, using yellow pages (or registered DABs before and
similar, including online sites) identify businesses after activity.
selling pets / pet products / services in the
municipality. Follow up to determine whether they
are and should be registered with council.
Objective 8.2: Annually inspect and audit all registered domestic animal businesses.
Activity When Evaluation
Conduct an annual inspection of each registered Annually 100% of all DABs inspected
DAB for compliance. prior to renewal and action
taken for any non-
compliance.Section 68A(2)(d) of the DAA: Provide for the review of existing Orders made under this Act and Local Laws
that relates to the Council’s municipal district with a view to determining whether further orders or local laws
dealing with the management of dogs and cats in the municipal district are desirable.
Within the limited resources, the animal management Information on website regarding cat curfew.
unit continues to look for ways it can provide an Registration papers amended to reflect
efficient and effective animal management service to mandatory desexing for cats.
the Wyndham community. In doing so it looks to Review off lead area to ensure they are suitable.
explore and investigate innovative ways of addressing
topical responsible pet ownership issues and meeting Our current Compliance Activities
its legislative obligations, through strategic use of Patrols of off lead areas.
partnerships, community engagement and technology. All cats to be desexed prior to release for new
registrations.
Our current Education/Promotion Activities Infringements issued for cats trapped outside
Information provided to cat owners and curfew hours.
residents in relation to curfew requirements
Information provided to cat owners on release
of their cat from the pound.
Objective 9.1: Review existing pound and animal management services.
Activity When Evaluation
Further identify and enhance relationships and Ongoing The extent to which
operational synergies with local, regional, public and relationships are further
private stakeholders. embedded and efficiencies
realised.
Explore officer mobility and the use of in-field 2018 The extent to which mobile
technologies. technology is applied in animal
management operations.Section 68A(3) of the DAA: Every Council must:
a. review its domestic animal management plan annually and, if appropriate, amend the plan;
b. provide the Department of Primary Industries’ Secretary with a copy of the plan and any amendments to
the plan; and
c. publish an evaluation of its implementation of the plan in its annual report.
The achievement of the Objectives and Activities detailed in this Plan will be reviewed and
reported annually.Location: 45 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria Postal Address: PO Box 197, Werribee, VIC 3030 Open: 8.00am - 5.00pm (Mon-Fri) Contact Telephone No: (03) 9742 0777 Fax: (03) 9741 6237 Email: mail@wyndham.vic.gov.au Website: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership
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