Report a dog attack
Key points
- A dog attack is any incident where a dog rushes at, bites, attacks, harasses or chases a person or animal, even if no injury is caused.
- If you or your pet/animal have been involved in a dog attack, or you have seen one happen, please report it to us as soon as possible – over the phone if you can.
- If the dog is still wandering after the attack, please call 1300 787 624 immediately so we can send an officer to try to secure the dog.
- If you can’t report the incident straight away, try to make notes about what happened as soon as you can after the incident.
Helpful information to provide when you make a report
When you report the dog attack, please try to include as much of the following information as possible:
- Date and time of the incident.
- Where it happened. (Please include the nearest street address, park location and/or any landmarks. If you're not sure where you are and have your phone with you, use a mapping or GPS app on your phone such as Google Maps to tell you your location.
- A description of the offending dog, which might include:
- breed
- colour or markings
- size
- sex
- whether it has long or short hair, a collar or any tags.
- A description of the dog’s owner, which might include:
- male or female
- hair colour
- name, address and phone number if possible
- A description of the dog owner’s car, which might include:
- registration number
- colour
- make
- model.
- A description and/or photos of any injuries.
Keep copies of any medical invoices or reports to give to the investigating officer.
Report it
Please report the incident to us as soon as possible.
Online
Call
Phone 1300 787 624 to report it over the phone (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
Email, post or drop your written report to us
|
Post |
Dog attack report |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
In person |
Cardinia Shire Council |
Next steps
- If the offending dog is still wandering at large or a possible risk to the public, a Council officer will attend to try to secure the dog.
- A Council officer will contact you.
They may:
- take a statement and photos of any injuries
- ask for medical reports or other documents
- seek witness statements and other evidence
- contact the dog’s owner to get their side of the story
- The circumstances and evidence will be assessed and a decision made regarding whether actions should be taken. You will be kept informed of any decisions.