Dangerous Dogs
The main legislation for dangerous dog offences is the Companion Animals Act 1998 (NSW). This Act aims to provide for the effective and responsible care and management of companion animals including dogs, cats, and any other animals prescribed by the regulation as companion animals.
To have your pet be determined as ‘dangerous’ can be an overwhelming and stressful experience for you and your family.
Our team is experienced in providing a strong defence case for you to ensure that your pet continues to receive the quality of life that you wish for them.
When Can a Dog be Declared Dangerous?
If a dog rushes at, attacks, bites, harasses or chases any person or animal (other than vermin). Whether an injury is caused to the person or animal is irrelevant to the matter.
If the dog has repeatedly tried to attack, or chase, a person or animal
If the dog has displayed unreasonable aggression towards another person or animal.
The owner can be prosecuted even if they are not present at the time of the incident. If your dog has already been deemed a menacing, dangerous, or restricted dog you will likely receive higher penalties. If your dog is declared as dangerous, your dog will be subject to many restrictions.
What to Do if You Receive a Notice of Intention by Council to Declare Your Dog as Dangerous
What to do if you receive a notice of intention by Council to declare your dog as dangerous
You can write and lodge a letter of objection with the council within 7 days of receiving the notice. This is something that our experienced team of lawyers can help you with. You may wish to include character references, temperament assessment, and/or photos in your letter of objection.
If the court rejects your objection and issues a dangerous dog declaration you can appeal this matter in court.
You can negotiate with Council using control orders. Control orders essentially promise to control your dog in a certain way and can be accepted by the court as legally binding.
If you have any further questions or want to discuss how to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, contact our firm at (02) 9060 9799 or email our Principal Lawyer at samuel@saslawyers.com.au.