BY DR NICKY THOMAS, WYNNUM MANLY VETERINARY HOSPITAL
There have been some recent changes to Queensland dog laws to reduce the incidence of dog attacks. People who fail to control their dogs in public places face on-the-spot fines of $806, while more serious attacks may result in custodial sentences (according to the Queensland government website).
Appropriate restraint
Dogs should be walked on a properly fitted lead or harness by someone who can physically control them. The use of a head collar, such as a Halti or Gentle Leader, can help provide better control of strong and excitable dogs. Keep your dog close to you so you can act if they react to other dogs, people or vehicles. Do not allow your dog to rush at or jump on dogs or people.
Only allow your dog off lead in areas designated for this purpose and ONLY if they respond to voice commands.
Training is essential
Good manners start in puppyhood with a dog’s socialisation period falling between three and 17 weeks of age. Puppy pre-school is a great start, along with exposing your dog to different situations at a young age.
Obedience training is essential to ensure your dog is safe around others. Commands such as “leave” and “let’s go” are useful to help keep your pet focused while walking.
Recall is a vitally important command to master. If your pet cannot be recalled with a voice command, they should not be off lead.
Know your pet and be alert
Keep your eyes and ears open when walking your dog. Watch for other dogs, people, traffic, cyclists/skateboarders/scooter riders. Monitor your dog for signs of fear and aggression, and be prepared to remove them from the area before their fight or flight response is triggered.
Signs of anxiety, including lip licking, pulling ears back, yawning, tucked tail, lunging, growling or excessive barking, should prompt you to remove your dog from triggering situations.
If your dog is fearful or aggressive, it may be beneficial to seek areas to exercise where there are fewer dogs and people.
Let’s all work together to keep our area a safe place to enjoy for all of the pets and people who live here.
