Wallaroo, Qld: chickens and sheep attacked

"Dog owners are required, by law, to be in control of their dogs at all times."

Two chickens have been killed, and three more are missing, following an attack by two Staffordshire cross dogs.

The attack comes two weeks after sheep were killed by dogs on a neighbouring property.

The dogs were "chased off by alpacas and followed to their home in Prince St, Wallaroo."

Police were contacted but could not locate the dogs and so they referred the matter to council. Council contacted the dogs' owners who would not sign them over to council. Council then issued fines totaling $740 for two counts of dog attack, two counts of unregistered dogs, and two counts of having a dog at large.

"Dogs roaming free are considered to be 'at large' and can be taken away to the pound where the owners will have to pay a fine to get their dog back,” council Dog Control Officer Gary Oliver explained.

Prepared using report "Another dog attack on Evans Road", Yorke Peninsula Country Times 2/12/08, http://www.ypct.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4160&Itemid=66, accessed 4/12/08.

Rockhampton, Qld: Two hunting dogs attack man in his yard

"They turned on me like a pack ... pinned me down on the stairs and were on top of me."

A 42 year old Rockhampton father is grateful to have escaped the attack of two large hunting dogs this week.

Robert Koster was adding Christmas decorations to a tree in his front yard when the attack occurred. He had seen the two dogs in his neighbourhood over the previous three weeks and believed they were being minded by nearby residents on behalf of their owners.

On Monday afternoon Koster saw the dogs, which he describes in appearance as wolfhound-crosses, in his neighbour's yard. The neighbour chased them away and then they entered Mr Koster's yard.

Mr Koster then also began to shoo them down his driveway when they both turned and attacked him.

"I tried to stand my ground but I knew they were going to go at me," he said.

Mr Koster then ran away but, he says, "they pinned me down on the stairs and were on top of me. I was kicking at them, and yelling to my kids to unlock the front door at the top of the stairs. I had nowhere to go.

“I finally got inside, and just felt so lucky I got away.”

Mr Koster's 10 year old son Joshua and 8 year old daughter Gemma has also been in and around the front yard at about the same time and Mr Koster is thankful that he was attacked instead of them.

Council was contacted and have issued a warrant for the seizure of the dogs but it is believed they have since been returned to their owners and now cannot be located.

There have been 106 formal complaints regarding dog attacks on animals and humans in the Rockhampton region during 2008 (Yeppon: 52; Gracemere: 9; Mt Morgan: 1; Rockhampton: 44)

Prepared using report "Dogs bring terror to light chore", The Morning Bulletin 3/12/08, http://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/story/2008/12/03/dogs-bring-terror-to-light-chore/, accessed 4/12/08.

Kanahooka, NSW: Two horses attacked

"I've seen dogs attack animals before but they usually go for the legs or the belly, but this dog knew exactly where to go to make a kill."

Two horses and a man were attacked by a dog at Kanahooka near Dapto in NSW.

The horses' owner Susan Myers happened to look out her window and see the attack in progress. She told her mother to call a vet and then went out to confront the dog, which she believes was a female pitbull cross.

The dog first attacked a 25 year old Shetland pony named Rosie which was expecting to give birth. Ms Myers reports that no amount of yelling at the dog would cause it to let go of the pony's throat.

A man came to the rescue, hitting the dog with a lump of wood, but the dog then ran into the next paddock and attacked a quarter horse named Zida.

The dog "went for my other horse in the next paddock and just launched straight at her throat," said Ms Myers. "I've seen dogs attack animals before but they usually go for the legs or the belly, but this dog knew exactly where to go to make a kill."

After attacking the quarter horse the dog then chased a man who was walking his own dogs. The man made it inside his house just before the dog reached him but the dog continued to savage his door.

Police and a council ranger attended the scene and captured a second dog, but the dog which attacked the horses was not located.

Ms Myers reported that the ponies are used by children and she remarked that "If [children] were here it could have been really, really bad."

Rosie the Shetland Pony delivered her foal two days later and all horses are expected to recover from the attack.

Prepared using report "Dog brutal, pony owner warns", Illawarra Mercury 12/11/08, http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/news/local/news/general/dog-brutal-pony-owner-warns/1358555.aspx, accessed 13/11/08. Photo from the source article where it is attributed "Beware: Susan Myers checks the injury a dog left after attacking quarter horse Zida around the throat. Picture: ANDY ZAKELI"

Umina, NSW: Girl's lip ripped off by dog

"She was screaming and there was blood everywhere. It nearly ripped half of her cheek off"

A nine year old girl has been tragically mauled in Umina by a dog which was known to her.

Alannah Smith was playing in her front yard on Monday evening. A boy playing with Alannah remarked that she wanted to come inside for ice cream so she opened the front gate, which is when the dog attacked her.

Alannah's 19 year old sister Katrina Grey did not hear the dog but heard Alannah's screams. She said the dog still hung around after the attack. Katrina brought Alannah inside, covered in blood.

Alannah's mother, Rebecca Trevor, commented that she had taught her children not to play with other people's dogs. She thought Alannah may have been more relaxed regarding this dog because she had seen it many times before and knew its name. She called for it to be destroyed.

Alannah is now in Westmead Children's Hospital undergoing specialist treatment and has received facial reconstruction surgery.

Police officers attended the scene and found a portion of Alannah's lip on the lawn. They transported the lip immediately to hospital.

Although the dog had disappeared by the time ambulance officers arrived, a neighbour advised police the dog was now in their back yard. Police contacted the dog's owner and a council ranger who seized the animal. They have also applied for a court order for the animal to be destroyed.

The dog is believed to be a "Rottweiler-type".

Prepared using report "Dog rips off Allannah Smith's lip", The Daily Telegraph 11/11/08, http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,24637097-5006009,00.html, accessed 11/11/08 and "Girl savaged by Rottweiler-type dog in yard at Umina", The Daily Telegraph 11/11/08, http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,24635072-5001021,00.html, accessed 11/11/08. Photo from the first source article where it is attributed "THIS is nine-year-old Alannah Smith, the little girl whose lip was torn off by this dog - photographed by a relative. Alannah's family have now told of the horror of the attack. l".

Warnambool, Vic: Surgery after dog attack's woman's face

"The first thing (to do) was get the ambulance, there was that much blood"

Debbie Wedlock is fortunate to be alive after a stray dog savagely attacked her face at Warnambool on Saturday.

Wedlock was arriving home when she noticed what she described as a "skinny" bull-mastif, Rhodesian ridgeback cross on her front lawn.

Having bred pitbull terriers, Wedlock took compassion on the stray and brought food out to it. She went to pat the dog which then mauled her.

Her former partner and father of her two children, Chris McPherson, was in the house at the time of the attack. He rushed out at the sound of screams and had to kick the dog off Ms Wedlock's face.

Mr McPherson remarked that "the first thing [to be done] was [to] get [an] ambulance, [because] there was that much blood."

Police attended and the dog was impounded by a City Council Ranger who explained that the owners were believed to be away at present. If the dog is not claimed within 8 days, it may be destroyed. If the dog is claimed, it will be declared a dangerous dog and will be required to be permanently kept in an enclosure.

Prepared using report "Shock as dangerous dog attacks woman", The Standard 11/11/08, http://warrnambool.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/shock-as-dangerous-dog-attacks-woman/1356634.aspx, accessed 11/11/08. Photo from source article where it is attributed "Debbie Wedlock underwent surgery after a dog attack. 081110DW43Pictures: DAMIAN WHITE Debbie Wedlock, who was attacked by dog on Friday night. Chris McPherson helped her escape. 081110DW40 "I had to kick it off her face. If it was a little kid, who knows what could've happened?" Chris McPherson".

Washington DC, USA: President's dog attacks reporter

"The seemingly docile dog snapped at [and bit] him"

Reuters reporter Jon Decker was bitten on the index finger by President George W Bush's pet dog Barney outside the White House today.

The event was captured on film and quickly made its way onto the internet. The clip ends with a frame showing Barney's fangs about to bite Mr Decker.

The White House doctor applied first aid. As the bite pierced the skin, Mr Decker is now undergoing a course of antibiotics.

Prepared using report "George Bush's dog bites reporter", Sydney Morning Herald 7/11/08, http://www.smh.com.au/news/world/george-bushs-dog-bites-news-reporter/2008/11/07/1225561094627.html, accessed 7/11/08. Photo from source article where it is credited to AFP.

South Wentworthville, NSW: Woman hospitalised after double dog attack

"A woman is in hospital after being attacked by at least two dogs while on a walk in Sydney's west"

A 30 year old woman was attacked by two dogs, believed to be Rottweilers in South Wentworthville today.

The attack occurred outside the house where the dogs were kept.

The woman, believed to be local, suffered injuries to her shoulder and leg and was admitted to Westmead Hospital.

The dogs are presently being held in a nearby yard.

Prepared using report "Mauled by dogs on her morning walk", Sydney Morning Herald 15/10/08, http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/mauled-by-dogs-on-her-morning-walk/2008/10/15/1223750077784.html, accessed 15/10/08.

Eden, NSW: Goats killed by dog attack

"One [goat] had been killed by the dog and the other had to be euthanased"

A Staffordshire terrier has attacked two goats on a neighbouring property near Eden.

One of the goats was killed by the dog whilst the second was later euthanased. The owner was issued with a $550 fine and the dog was surrendered and later destroyed.

Bega Valley Shire Council ranger John Flanagan said "Dog owners who live in urban or rural areas have a particular responsibility to ensure that their dogs do not leave their own property."

Prepared using report "Goats killed by dogs", Bega District News 10/08, http://bega.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/tip-plans-for-comment/1332666.aspx, accessed 15/10/08.

Mt Gambier, SA: Dog attacks double over past year

"A third of these attacks involved dog attacks on people, while the rest were dog-on-dog attacks"

Mt Gambier recorded 6 dog attacks between 2007 - 2008, compared with just 3 during the 12 months prior.

Greg Muller of Mt Gambier City Council noted that 4,617 dogs were registered in Mt Gambier, making the total number of attacks low, but still concerning.

Mr Muller stated that while not all dog attacks are reported to council, more people are becoming aware of their right to report dog attacks.

Prepared using report "Mount Gambier dog attacks double", The Border Watch 13/10/08, http://www.borderwatch.com.au/archives/1506, accessed 15/10/08.

Leichhardt, Qld: Dog attacks mother at bus stop

"The dog grabbed her trousers and then bit her on the back"

A Queensland mother was attacked at a bus stop after dropping her five year old daughter off at school.

Rosemarie Jasperson had just placed her bag on the bus stop seat when the dog ran up and started barking at her. With Ms Jasperson screaming, the dog then grabbed her trousers and then bit her on the back.

Ms Jasperson says her life was saved from the "savage attack" by two passing motorists who stopped to help, and a friend who helped her onto the bus.

Although her flesh was not torn, Ms Jasperson was bruised and suffered swelling.

Council reported that the attack was being investigated. It was also believed the dog had been put down.

Prepared using report "Dog attack terrifies bus traveller", Queensland Times 16/9/08, http://www.qt.com.au/storydisplay.cfm?storyid=3784833, accessed 10/10/08. Photo from the source article where it is uncredited.

Alice Springs, NT: Council passes tough dog laws

"... they have a responsibility to keep their pets ... at home and under control."

Alice Springs council has upheld tough new laws regarding dog ownership. The council was asked to approve lower penalties than originally proposed in draft animal by-laws. Instead the aldermen approved the by-laws with tougher penalties.

Rural property owner Rod Kramer has lost half his calves to dog attacks in recent years and said "hopefully it will send a clear message to dog owners that they have a responsibility to keep their pets, no matter how well behaved they think they are, to keep them at home and under control."

Mr Kramer also noted other landholders who have lost stock, including race horses.

Prepared using report "A rural property owner in Alice Springs says he is pleased town council aldermen have decided to uphold tough new penalties for dog attacks.", ABC Alice Springs 16/9/08, http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/16/2365587.htm?site=alicesprings, accessed 10/10/08.

Nambour, Qld: Police Officer attacked by 65kg dog

"[The dog] left him with a bite injury so deep it exposed a bone in his forearm"

A 65 kilogram boxer mastiff cross attacked a police officer as he stepped from his car this week.

The officer was visiting a property to check on the welfare of the resident when the incident occurred. It is believed the owner had let the dog off its chain so it could go to the toilet. The dog ran down the side of the house and through the front gate in order to attack the police officer who was stepping out of his car.

A witness claimed the officer was lucky to be alive, saying that if the [dog's] family hadn't been there, it would have "ripped the officer to shreds."

The officer was taken to hospital with "extensive injuries" to his left arm.

The dog was surrendered to council and then put down.

Prepared using report "Dog put down after attack on police officer", Sunshine Coast Daily 7/10/08, http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/oct/07/dog-put-down-after-attack-police-officer/, accessed 9/10/08.

Albany, WA: Alpacas and sheep killed by dogs

"It was so savage and they were still alive ... one had her face ripped out"

Five alpacas were killed at Youngs Sidings last month, at a cost of $60,000.

The deaths have been blamed on uncontrolled domestic dogs and follow several similar attacks. Several months ago sheep were killed at Lower King and last week two llamas were chased off their property, with one still missing.

The llamas' owner, Mr Traill, says the attacks are due to domestic dogs being off-leash.

Lorraine Naylor, the owner of the five alpacas that had to be put down last month following the attack described the "carnage": "It was so savage and they were still alive. One had her face ripped out, and skin in sections ripped from her back. A four week old had her intestines ripped out."

Another expensive animal on agistment had severe facial and leg injuries and was also put down. The estate's alpacas have won international and national awards.

Prepared using report "More dog attacks on farms", Albany and Great Southern Weekender 9/10/08, http://albany.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/more-dog-attacks-on-farms/1329406.aspx, accessed 9/10/08.

Ulverstone, Tas: 6yo girl mauled by bull mastiff

"I could see blood immediately and even parts of her skull. It was just mauling her."

Six year old Aimee Grinsted was mauled by an American bull mastiff in Ulverstone, Tasmania last Wednesday.

The girl and her mother were visiting the owner of the dog. Aimee was patting the dog when it began to growl, then put its paws on her shoulders and started mauling at her head.

Aimee dropped to the floor, covering her head but the dog continued the attack.

Aimee's mother Lisa, immediately attempted to pull the dog away but the dog refused to let go.

It was some 15 seconds before Ms Grinsted was able to free her daughter.

Aimee suffered serious head injuries and was underwent an operation. Doctors remarked that had the attack been at Aimee's throat she would almost certainly have been killed.

Ms Grinsted remarked that her daughter did not provoke the attack but she suspects that the scent of a puppy which Aimee had earlier handled might have contributed.

Police have charged the owner with a dog-related offense. Ms Grinsted is calling for the destruction of the dog for the safety of other children.

Prepared using report "Head surgery, hospital stay after DOG MAULS 6YO GIRL", The Advocate 1/10/08, http://nwtasmania.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/head-surgery-hospital-stay-after-attack-dog-mauls-6yo-girl/1322272.aspx, accessed 2/10/08. Photo of Aimee Grinsted showing the injuries on her head after being attacked by a dog at Ulverstone from the source article where it is credited to Jason Hollister.

Sylvania, NSW: Dangerous dogs destroyed

"It was a terrible thing to see ... there was blood running down the back of her leg"

Two dogs which attacked a 15 year old girl in Sylvania a fortnight ago have been destroyed.

Sutherland Shire council ordered the Staffordshire terriers' destruction and fined the owners A$2,200 for "owning a dog that attacks, not preventing a dog from escaping, not controlling a dog effectively and having an unregistered dog."

Matthew Bruce of Sylvania ran from his home after hearing the teenager scream during the attack. He said that there were two dogs and one of them was biting her. "It was a terrible thing to see she was running and one of them was attached to her. There was blood running down the back of her leg," he said.

Mr Bruce said council's response was "great".

Prepared using report "Dogs put down and bite put on owners", The Leader 25/9/08, http://stgeorge.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/dogs-put-down-and-bite-put-on-owners/1282896.aspx, accessed 30/9/08.

Adelaide River, NT: Dog attacks dog, eaten by crocodile

"[The] two dogs ... repeatedly went to another property where they attacked a dog called Roxy"

Bruce Edwards today pleaded guilty in Darwin Magistrate's Court for allowing his two dogs to repeatedly attack other dogs in the area.

The court was told the two dogs were not fenced and repeatedly left the property to attack another dog named Roxy on a neighbouring property. The second property owner called police after observing the dogs fighting.

One of Mr Edwards' dogs was shot after the attack but the second was later eaten by a "killer crocodile".

Mr Edwards was given a 2 year good behaviour bond and ordered to pay the victim's vet fees.

Prepared using report "Killer croc takes vicious dog", Post 24/9/08, http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/24/2373278.htm?site=darwin, accessed 24/9/08. See also: http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2008/09/27/6225_ntnews.html

Woodlands, WA: Dog kills dog

"He was half-dead [when] the husky literally spat him out ... the skin was ripped off his back"

A Siberian husky attacked a toy poodle when the two crossed paths whilst being walked by their owners near Jackadder Lake.

The husky's owner, Tony Cousins, says in defence of his dog that the poodle provoked the attack by running towards his own two dogs, which were on leads.

The poodle's owner, Matti Dickinson, asked "what if it had been a child?"

Following the attack Mr Cousins walked away with his two dogs, later providing the reason that the best thing he could do for the poodle was to remove his dogs.

Ms Dickinson and her dog were driven to the vet by another man. "The skin was ripped off his back and when they x-rayed him he had a punctured lung," she said.

After her dog dies, Ms Dickinson looked up Mr Cousins in the phone book and went to his house to inform him. Mr Cousins then phoned police, saying Ms Dickinson was pounding on his door and that her actions had shaken his family very much.

Ms Dickinson accused Mr Cousins of not having control over his dogs despite their extensible leads. Mr Cousins has three registered dogs and says the Siberian huskies are people-friendly dogs which have visited old age homes and play with his 10 month old granddaughter.

Ms Dickinson bought her dog as a puppy two years ago, for $1,200.

Prepared using report "Dog kills dog", Post 20/9/08, http://www.postnewspapers.com.au/20080920/news/002.shtml, accessed 19/9/08. Images of Pucci the toy poodle (top) and Tova the Siberian husky with its owner Tony Cousins (bottom) from the source article where they are uncredited.

Furnissdale, WA: Dog attacks ranger

"The dog, named Chopper, latched onto the ranger’s left leg."

A shire ranger was attacked by an American pit bull in Furnissdale, Western Australia yesterday.

The ranger had a warrant to apprehend the dog, named Chopper, following allegations it had earlier attacked another dog. Early reports stated that despite a warning sign on the property's gate, the ranger entered and approached the dog which then attacked him. Later reports argued that earlier reports were incorrect, the officer did not ignore a warning sign and the officer knew "better than that" as he had 18 years experience.

A second ranger came to the rescue and managed to free the man of the dog. Police were called to the scene and the dog was surrendered without incident. It is believed the dog will be destroyed.

The ranger was admitted to hospital and required surgery.

The Shire is considering legal action against the dog's owner.

Prepared using report "Ranger hurt in attack", Mandurah Mail 19/9/08, http://mandurah.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/ranger-hurt-in-attack/1277352.aspx, accessed 19/9/08 and "Dog attack reports 'incorrect'", The West Australian 19/9/08, http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=77&ContentID=98689, accessed 9/10/08.

Fraser Is., Qld: Dingo attacks 3 year old girl

"The [3 year old] girl was bitten on the back and buttocks"

A 3 year old girl has this week become the fifth victim in 12 months of dingo attacks on Fraser Island in Queensland.

The girl was playing near her parents who were fishing on a beach. The dingo approached and bit her on the back and buttocks. She was not seriously [physically] injured in the attack.

The girl's 2 year old and 7 year old siblings were nearby.

Authoroties are expected to destroy the Australian dog if it can be identified.

Prepared using report "Dingo fences to protect Fraser Island tourists", SMH 18/9/08, http://www.smh.com.au/news/news/fraser-fenced-after-dingo-attacks/2008/09/18/1221331009774.html, accessed 18/9/08.

Sylvania, NSW: Teenage girl hospitalised after dog attack

"Paramedics ... found the girl bleeding from both legs"

A fifteen year old girl from Sydney's south was admitted to hospital two days ago following a dog attack.

Paramedics were called to Easton Avenue in Sylvania just before 4pm, where they found the teenager bleeding from both legs. She was taken to Sutherland hospital and is in a satisfactory condition.

Prepared using report "Girl bitten by dog", The Leader 15/9/08, http://stgeorge.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/girl-bitten-by-dog/1272948.aspx, accessed 16/9/08.

Echuca, Vic: Suspicious toddler death after dog bite

"[There are] reports the girl fell and hit her head after being bitten by a red heeler"

Two year old Angela Bannister died in suspicious circumstances after being bitten by a red heeler dog the day before.

The incident happened in July in Echuca, Victoria, and police believe the girl's death happened in suspicious circumstances. Police are investigating reports the girl fell and hit her head after the dog bite occurred. It is reported the man caring for her communicated with a second man before leaving the scene and police would like to question that second man.

A second report states that the man with Angela at the time of the dog bite was her step-father Dan Simmons. Mr Simmons called for an ambulance to collect the unconscious child from their home. Her death occurred one month before she was due to turn two.

"I'm a mess" was all the Angela's maternal grandmother Tracey Walker could say following the launch of the murder investigation.

Prepared using report "Police investigate Echuca toddler's death", ABC 13/9/08, http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/09/13/2363681.htm?section=justin, accessed 13/9/08 and "Toddler death riddle, stepdad a suspect", Herald Sun 14/9/08, http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24341994-2862,00.html accessed 14/8/08. Image from the Herald Sun article where it is credited to Garry Richardson.

Tamworth, NSW: Elderly woman hospitalised after dog attack

"A chunk of skin from the back of the victim’s calf was still lying on the road in Rawson Ave following the incident."

An elderly woman has been admitted to hospital following a dog attack outside the front gate of the dog's home.

The woman had been walking with two of her friends when a small dog approached them and started sniffing their legs. A larger dog then approached the trio and bit the elderly lady on the back of her leg.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene and the dog - a border collie kelpie cross was subdued with capsicum spray.

The owner has surrendered the dog to council rangers to be destroyed and remarked "This is the first time he has bitten anyone but if you bite you can’t risk it happening again."

Prepared using report "Woman in hospital after being attacked by a dog", The Northern Daily Leader 9/9/08, http://tamworth.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/woman-in-hospital-after-being-attacked-by-dog/1266933.aspx, accessed 11/9/08. Image from the source article where it is credited to Robert Chappel.

Muswellbrook, NSW: Four sheep killed by kelpies

"Three Poll Dorset sheep were killed, another had to be euthanised and four others were severely wounded"

Two kelpies - one tan and one black - are being blamed for the death of four sheep at Muswellbrook. The deaths occurred during two separate attacks on Monday and Thursday nights last week.

The second attack occurred at Muswellbrook High School Agriculture Farm where the sheep were integral to the agricultural education program.

“It’s distressing for the students to see the animals this way when they put in so much work,” agriculture teacher Fiona Bailey said.

The first attack occurred on a neighbouring property and council was notified the next day, but the ranger could not be raised. Police were notified following the second attack.

Prepared using report "Student farm attacked", Muswellbrook Chronicle 29/8/07, http://muswellbrook.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/student-farm-attacked/1257563.aspx, accessed 29/8/08. Image from the source article where it is uncredited.

Kalgoorlie, WA: Wild dogs slaughtering sheep

"the dogs don’t just kill sheep to eat, they will hunt for fun, so they can kill large numbers of sheep in one night"

Wild dogs are being blamed in Western Australia for the loss of hundreds of sheep. Pastoralists are criticising the government for trivialising the issue and they say feral animals are "out of control" and the region is at risk of becoming a "feral wilderness."

One pastoralist has given up running sheep on his property, stating that in a year where he expected to shear 8000 sheep, he managed to harvest wool from only less than 900. Although his property is ideal for running sheep he made the decision to farm cattle instead.

A second pastoralist has reduced his sheep headcount from 20,000 to just 2,500 and hopes to have all sheep sold off by Christmas. "If we don’t control these pests, that opens the whole agricultural area up to come under attack from wild dogs and camels," he said.

Prepared using report "Wild dog attacks spark feral wilderness fear", The West Australian 28/8/07, http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=146&ContentID=94600 **disturbing image warning**, accessed 28/8/08. Image from the source article where it is uncredited.

Nowra NSW: Staffordshire bullterrier attacks prize horse

"it came running up to us and savagely attacked and kept attacking"

A multi-award winning draught horse was attacked while it pulled grandchildren in a carriage this weekend.

Michal and Robyn Lawrence were taking their grandchildren for a ride when a Staffordshire bullterrier rushed up and repeatedly bit the horse's legs.

The horse, named Bill, was eventually able to kick the dog in the head.

Police attended and Michal reported their saying the dog owner would be held liable for expenses. Apart from injuries to the horse, riding equipment was also damaged in the attack.

Prepared using report "Draught horse injured in savage dog attack", South Coast Register 27/8/07, http://nowra.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/draught-horse-injured-in-savage-dog-attack/1255056.aspx, accessed 27/8/08. Image from the source article where it is uncredited.

Rockhampton, Qld: Rottweilers slaughter 4 sheep

"Cameron entered a bloody scene of dead sheep and terrified animals"

Two rottweilers destroyed three sheep yesterday morning on a property at Parkhurst, near Rockhampton, Queensland. A fourth sheep was later put down by a vet due to its extensive injuries. The attack was interrupted by Cameron Burggraaf, one of the property owner's employees.

Pictured is the property owner Mark Bull, who said "If they come back again onto my property, I'll shoot them ... I have the licences."

Mr Bull has been informed by authorities that the dogs would likely return now they had the taste for blood. An employee had previously been chased by a rottweiler as he rode a bicycle to work.

"I would hate to think what would happen if these dogs got hold of a child," Mr Bull said. "Someone knows whose dogs these are. They would have come home with blood all over them."

Mr Bull's property is fenced and it appears that the dogs dug under the fence. Also on the property is a pony that his children love.

A police spokesperson outlined the circumstances under which a property owner may lawfully shoot a dog on the property: "The section applies if an owner of land that is not in an urban district, and is an authorised person, reasonably believes a dog on the land is not under someone's control, and is attacking, or is about to attack, stock on the land.""

Prepared using report "Roaming rottweilers slaughter pet sheep in frenzied attack", The Morning Bulletin 26/8/07, http://www.themorningbulletin.com.au/storydisplay.cfm?storyid=3782740, accessed 26/8/08. Image from the source article where it is uncredited.

Warren, NSW: Inquest into girl's death put on hold

An inquest into the death of a four year old girl has been put on hold this week as the coronor presiding over proceedings was taken from the hearing in an ambulance.

Two years ago, the girl was killed by dogs owned by Tom and Joel Wilson of Warren. The inquest was to hear that the girl had trespassed onto her neighbour's property and that the dogs were being housed in compliance with guidelines.

A history of interaction between police, the girl's mother, the dogs' owners and the Department of Community Services (DOCS) was being detailed, including allegations that the mother had been warned previously of the danger of her child trespassing onto the dogs' property.

A separate claim alleged that the dogs had earlier been seen wandering on public streets, but that at the time of the death they were properly housed.

The court was told that the Wilsons had six cross-bred pig dogs including two kept in their own enclosure, three kept on a chain and one free to roam the property's yard.

Deputy State Coroner MacPherson adjourned the hearing abruptly two days ago and an ambulance was called shortly thereafter. The hearing was expected to continue yesterday however.

Prepared using report "Inquest Stalled", Daily Liberal 19/8/07, http://dubbo.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/inquest-stalled/1248086.aspx, accessed 20/8/08. Image from the source article where it is uncredited.

Alice Springs, NT: Second man eaten by dogs

"I needed to get away after seeing the body - I spewed my guts up"

The body of a second man has been found at Alice Springs, being eaten by dogs.

The news comes after a South Australian man was found dead three weeks ago and a local Aboriginal woman suffered a horrific attack in May.

An anonymous 46 year old man found the deceased Aboriginal man's body being eaten by three dogs at the Hidden Valley camp. He chased the dogs off and checked for a pulse but found none. He directed a relative to contact police and then "needed to get away" and vomited in response to seeing the corpse.

The man remarked that "once dogs get the taste of human blood they'll never go back [to not attempting to acquire more human blood]."

Prepared using report "Second body eaten by dogs", Centralian Advocate 28/8/07, http://www.centralianadvocate.com.au/article/2008/08/19/3128_news.html, accessed 20/8/08.

Alice Springs, NT: Man eaten by dogs

"the savagely bitten [dead man's] body ... was found by children"

Three weeks ago school children found the "savagely bitten body" of 26 year old South Australian man Michael Hardy.

Although the news article does not say whether he was killed by dog attacks, emergency meetings were held by Tangentyere Council resulting in the destruction of 26 dogs.

This information comes as part of a larger report on three attacks in the area, which are each listed separately here at Dog Attack News.

Prepared using report "Second body eaten by dogs", Centralian Advocate 28/8/07, http://www.centralianadvocate.com.au/article/2008/08/19/3128_news.html, accessed 20/8/08.

Alice Springs, NT: Woman's Ear ripped off by dogs

"her ear ripped off and ... deep wounds to her face"

A 41 year old Aboriginal woman had her ear ripped off and suffered deep wounds to her face following a dog attack in Alice Springs in May this year.

The information comes from a larger report published recently that gives details of a number of other attacks in that region. These will be listed separately here on Dog Attack News.

Prepared using report "Second body eaten by dogs", Centralian Advocate 28/8/07, http://www.centralianadvocate.com.au/article/2008/08/19/3128_news.html, accessed 20/8/08.

Perth WA: Siberian Husky kills 2 week old baby

Note: This report is from 2007.

"the girl's parents were "devastated" and under sedation"

A two week old baby girl was killed in her cot by the family pet Siberian Husky in Perth. The parents were nearby watching TV but believed the dog was outside. They heard noise from the child's bedroom and went to investigate. There they discovered the dog had taken hold of their daughter by the head and removed her from the cot.

The parents are under sedation. The newborn was their only daughter although they have four or five sons.

Prepared using report "Perth baby dies after dog attack", theage.com.au, 28/8/07, http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Twoweekold-baby-dies-after-dog-attack/2007/08/28/1188067079701.html, accessed 27/6/08.

Orange NSW: Dogs kill 1 cat, maul another

"There are small children everywhere around here, who knows what could happen."

A family cat has been mauled to death by two dogs in Orange. The following day a second cat was mauled but survived.

Witnesses say the dogs wore collars, indicating they had owners in the region, but they have not yet been found.

A neighbour reported seeing the dogs about three weeks earlier, attempting to dig their way into back yards.

Prepared using report "Killer dogs stalk family pets", Central Western Daily, 30/5/08, http://orange.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/killer-dogs-stalk-family-pets/779810.aspx, accessed 27/6/08. Photo of Orange veterinarian Judith Carney and veterinary assistant Tori Anderson uncredited from the source article.

Blacktown NSW: Pitbulls maul fox terrier to death in front of 73 year old owner

"We were kicking and hitting him, but he had Penny in his mouth and wouldn't let [her] go ... blood was everywhere."

A pair of dogs - one a pitbull, the other a pitbull cross - has mauled to death a fox terrier in front of its 73 year old owner. The dogs, which lived next door, had jumped the fence into the elderly woman's yard.

The owner of the fox terrier had requested only days previously that the pitbull owners ensure their dogs remain on their side of the fence after they had jumped into the yard.

The pitbull raced up and held the smaller dog in its mouth, not letting go. The pitbull cross chased the family's second terrier through the house.

A neighbour heard the commotion and called police.

The attacking dogs were later destroyed.

Although one terrier was saved, their second - named Penny -"was killed right in front of us," said the woman. "We're both traumatised by it, my husband and I. We keep crying, on and off. I just want people to be held responsible for their dogs."

Prepared using report "Pit bulls maul foxy to death", Blacktown Advocate, 11/6/08, http://www.blacktownadvocate.com.au/article/2008/06/11/2267_news.html, accessed 27/6/08.

Rowville Vic: Pet staffordshire terrier mastiff cross attacks 14 year old boy

"Advanced life support paramedics arrived at his home where the boy's mother had wrapped his hand in a towel."

A 14 year old boy was bitten on the hand by his pet staffordshire terrier mastiff cross at Rowville. The dog was in a fight with another person's cocker spaniel when he tried to separate the animals.

The was attended by life support paramedics and had suffered cuts and a suspected fractured finger. He was taken to hospital.

The attack comes a week after a media report that the local council had made a decision not to destroy 5 of the 22 dogs on its dangerous dogs register. The five dogs in question had all attacked other animals but are now at their homes and "subject to regulations such as wearing muzzles while being walked, and a scanning chip that enables council officers to track their whereabouts"

Prepared using report "Pet dog attacks teenager", Knox Leader, 17/6/08, http://www.knoxleader.com.au/article/2008/06/17/37245_knv_news.html, accessed 27/6/08.

Spearwood WA: Pit bull cross attacks 3 people

"Police shot dead the male dog"

Police and a local ranger were called to Spearwood following reports of two pit bull cross dogs roaming the streets. The ranger and two neighbours were then attacked by the male dog. Police were forced to close off streets, but ultimately shot dead the male dog. The female was taken by the ranger.

All three injured persons were taken to hospital by ambulance.

Police and council are "pursuing prosecution of the owner for the dog attack, which carries a maximum $5000 fine if convicted."

Prepared using report "Three injured in dog attack in Perth", ABC News, 1/6/08, http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/06/01/2261663.htm?section=justin, accessed 27/6/08; "Authorities wait to hear from dog attack owner", 5/6/08, thewest.com.au, http://www.thewest.com.au/default.aspx?MenuID=77&ContentID=77168, accessed 27/6/08.

Currabubula NSW: Dog kills 57 year old man

"The 57-year-old victim was confirmed dead at 2.25 pm"

A man - almost certainly believed to be "knockabout Australian traveller" Mr Chris Spence - was discovered deceased in Currabubula following a dog attack.

A passer-by discovered the victim and called local publican Stuart Scott to ask how to call an ambulance. He called back 10 minutes later explaining someone had been savaged by a dog and asked what to do until the ambulance arrived.

Although paramedics arrived swiftly, the man was confirmed deceased.

Prepared using report "Goodbye Chris: Nomad killed in dog attack", The Northern Leader, 26/6/08, http://tamworth.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/goodbye-chris-nomad-killed-in-dog-attack/797822.aspx, accessed 27/6/08. Photo uncredited from the source article.

Hobartville NSW: Two Staffordshire bull terriers maul 1 year old boy

"the man was arrested at the scene and later charged with maliciously causing a dog to inflict grievous bodily harm"

A one year old boy suffered head, chest and leg injuries after being attacked by two Staffordshire bull terriers at Hobartville. He was then transported to a home in Cranebrook where ambulance personnel assisted.

A 36 year old male relative of the boy was arrested and charged with maliciously causing a dog to inflict grievous bodily harm.

The boy is in a serious but stable condition in hospital and has been taken into care by the Department of Community Services.

The dogs belong to the family of the child and it is believed they will be destroyed.

Prepared using report "Boy taken into care after dog attack", news.com.au 22/6/08, http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,23903325-1702,00.html accessed 26/6/08; "CORRECTION: Man charged following dog attack - Hobartville", NSW Police Force, 22/6/08, http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/news/latest_releases?sq_content_src=%2BdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGd3d3LmViaXoucG9saWNlLm5zdy5nb3YuYXUlMkZtZWRpYSUyRjIyMDQuaHRtbCZhbGw9MQ%3D%3D, accessed 27/6/08.

Mandurah WA: Two American Bulldogs critically injure 29 year old woman

"It looks like the dogs have become upset by the pair of them arguing and attacked the woman"

A 29 year old woman was taken to Perth hospital in a critical condition after being attacked by two American bulldogs. Just prior to the attack she had been arguing with her boyfriend at their shared home.

Their house had been set on fire, apparently during the dispute, and the woman had fled the house. She was then attacked near the front entrance when she returned to attempt to save the dogs.

The woman and her partner each owned one dog. One dog was destroyed with its owner's permission. The other was returned to the house.

Prepared using report "Woman critically injured in dog attack", Sydney Morning Herald, 22/6/08, http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/woman-critically-injured-in-dog-attack/2008/06/22/1214073042929.html accessed 26/6/08.

Peakhurst NSW: Staffordshire bull terrier cross attacks ambulance driver's pet puppy

"I thought my dog was going to get savaged to death ... It could have been a child it was attacking."

PEAKHURST ambulance driver Phillip Murdoch was walking his 5 month old cocker spaniel-poodle cross in Baumans Road Peakhurst when a Staffordshire bull terrier cross attacked his pet.

A nearby resident assisted Mr Murdoch in releasing the puppy from the attacking dog. After about 60 seconds of attack the puppy was freed and taken to the vet for treatment. Although she received "relatively minor injuries" she was in shock for about a week before being able to venture outside again.

The attacking dog was not microchipped. Council ordered "that the dog was not to be released if the owner came forward because of outstanding civil matters ... If no owner comes forward the dog is not to be rehoused."

Prepared using report "Dog Attack", St George and Sutherland Shire Leader, 19/6/08, http://stgeorge.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/dog-attack/792416.aspx accessed 26/6/08. Photo by Chris Lane from the source article.

Cronulla NSW: Bulldog attacks pet dog walked by 70 year old owner

"As I was pushing my dog through the ... window the bull[dog] came in again..."

A 70 year old woman watched as her "little dog" was "grabbed" by a bulldog on 19 June 2008.

A "Good Samaritan" drove his ute onto the footpath to distract the bulldog long enough for it to let go of the woman's pet. Whilst pushing her dog through the window of the ute the bulldog attacked again but the driver managed to shut his window in time to stop the second attack.

In a letter to the editor of the local paper, the pet owner asks the ute-driver to make contact so she can arrange for blood to be removed from his car seat and to update him on developments.

Prepared using report "Driver to rescue in dog attack", St George and Sutherland Shire Leader, 26/6/08, p7.