We’ve recently had a disturbing report from a resident that their dog was attacked and injured on the beach by one or two off-leash dogs belonging to another resident who was driving along the beach with the dogs. According to the report a large white dog rushed up unprovoked from about 300 metres away and attacked
their dog. Another dog also joined in on the attack. Their dog required stitches and medical treatment costing around $1,000. One ear is permanently damaged and the previously relaxed and friendly dog is now fearful and anxious around other dogs.
Animal Control are involved with this case.
We’ll update you if there’s any further information on this attack.
Please be alert when out with your dogs and particularly watchful for a large white dog that is not leashed. If you have any problems with dogs not being properly controlled take photos if possible and report the incident to Animal Control. Phone Horowhenua District Council at 06 366 0999.
Each year the Horowhenua District Council reports on how many dogs are registered, how many of those are dangerous or menacing, and where those dogs are to be found. In 2018–2019 (the most recent information) there were 4 menacing dogs and no dangerous dogs at Waikawa Beach.
Menacing dogs
Councils can classify a dog as menacing if it considers that it poses a threat to any person, stock, poultry, domestic animal, or protected wildlife because of
- any observed or reported behaviour of the dog; or
- any characteristics typically associated with the dog’s breed or type.
Councils must classify a dog as menacing if it belongs wholly or predominately to the type or breed of dog banned from importation into New Zealand – American Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Brazilian Fila, Japanese Tosa.
Menacing dogs must be muzzled when in public places and may be required by the council to be neutered.
Source: New Zealand Dog Safety – Dog Owners: Legal Responsibilities.
If you’d like to read the full ‘dog’ reports, we’ve uploaded them here.