it’s an issue.”
I read with interest, Natalie Green’s letter regarding the aggressive behaviour of small dogs towards larger dogs and having them off lead in a public place.
Such dog owners can be fined under the Companion Animals Act 1998 – Section 13 for failing to keep their dogs on lead and under effective control.
As a Dog Obedience Instructor (now retired, Sydney) I taught patrons Section 13 and 16 of the Act and made sure it was understood by dog owners.
I quote (in part) Sect.13. Responsibilities While Dog in Public Place.
“(1) A dog that is in a public place must be under the effective control of some competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and that is being held by (or secured to) the person.
(2) If this section is contravened:
(a) the owner of the dog, or (b) if the owner is not present at the time of the offense and another person who is of or above the age of 16 years is in charge of the dog at that time – that other person, is guilty of an offence.”
It goes on to say that the dog can be seized by an authorised officer if the owner continues to contravene the ruling, having been informed of such contravention.
As for the aggressive behaviour of small dogs towards larger dogs, it is commonly known as “little dog syndrome”.
Some owners think it is wonderfully courageous of their little dog to act aggressively towards a larger dog, and these owners are the first to scream out in protest and complaint if the larger dog reacts in defense of an aggressive attack.
The first question asked by an RSPCA officer if an attack is made known to them is …”Which dog was the aggressor?”
More often than enough, the owners of the smaller dog speak out first, pointing to the larger dog, and it is not until both sides of the story are heard that the true picture emerges. (I worked as a volunteer at the RSPCA shelter, Yagoona, Sydney.)
This is not to say that all small dogs are aggressive – they are not! Nor does it imply that all large dogs are placid.
One reason this problem exists is because of owners not willing to socialise their dogs at a young age with other dogs, children and adults.
This can best be done at a Puppy Pre-School followed by Obedience Instruction at a reputable Dog Obedience School. Owners learn what it is to be a responsible dog owner and obey rules set down by authorities that govern responsible dog ownership in our society.
Puppies and dogs learn to get along with each other. Unfortunately, we have dog owners in society that are a law unto themselves and nobody is going to tell them what to do with their dog.
Such owners make life unpleasant for those of us obeying the rules when walking our dog/s.
If you are reported and caught and given a hefty fine, don’t complain! The Companion Animals Act 1998 is available ONLINE or from your Local Council. You would do well to avail yourself of the Act and learn what it is to be a responsible dog owner.
Ron Chapman
Lakewood
