Dog Attacks and Roaming / Stray Dogs

Under the Companion Animals Act any dog which is in a place, other than where it is ordinarily kept, unaccompanied by a responsible person is a "stray".

Any person, including a council officer, may seize a stray dog in the following circumstances as provided under the Act:

• If a dog is found in a public place and is not under the effective control of some competent person (section 13)
• If a dog is in a public place prohibited under the Act (eg children's play area or food preparation/consumption area) (section 14)
• If seizing the dog is reasonable and necessary for the protection of any person or animal or to prevent damage to property (section 22)
• If the dog has attacked a person or animal and the dog is on property owned or occupied by the person seizing the dog. (section 18)

In addition, council officers and police have powers to seize a dog which has attacked from the owner's property if the owner is not present and the dog cannot be adequately secured on the property (section 18).

The Companion Animals Act requires a council to accept into the pound dog which is delivered to the pound or other authorised person of the council, such as a ranger.

However, the Act does not require a council to collect a "stray" animal from any public or private place.

If you see a roaming dog, and it is safe to approach, check if it has a tag or any other identification that may help to identify the owner.

A person who seizes a dog under the Companion Animals Act must:

• cause it to be delivered as soon as possible to its owner, if the owner can be identified, or
• take it to the Animal Care Facility (council pound) or other authorised council officer (eg ranger) (section 62).

A person who does not comply with this is guilty of an offence and may be liable for a penalty of up to $3,300.

Outside of the Animal Care Facility hours

Where a stray cat or dog is lawfully seized by a member of the community outside the opening hours of the Animal Care Facility and it is not possible to keep the cat or dog until the facility opens:

• The animal may be taken to any approved premises within the Campbelltown Local Government Area (LGA).
• If the cat or dog is severely injured or unwell the animal is required to be treated by the receiving vet (as per POCTA obligations) until the animal is stabilised and well enough for transfer to Glenfield Vets, or the Animal Care Facility as appropriate.
• Less critical cases can be referred to Glenfield Vets for interim treatment and holding until well enough for transfer to Council's Animal Care Facility.