DOG OWNERS REMINDED TO DO THEIR PART TO PROTECT LIVESTOCK

Agriculture Victoria is reminding regional dog owners to keep their pets securely contained as the threat posed by roaming dogs to livestock remains an ongoing concern for producers.

Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Jeff Cave says sheep producers near peri-urban areas are increasingly reporting incidents involving straying domestic dogs attacking their livestock.

Dr Cave says in many cases the dogs involved are family pets that have escaped confinement, with their natural instincts leading them to cause significant harm in paddocks.

He says these incidents can result in considerable losses for producers in a short space of time, often involving multiple animals.

Subsequently, Agriculture Victoria is reminding dog owners that, under Victorian law, they can be held liable for damage caused by their animals, and also that livestock owners have the right to take lethal action in the event where a dog is found attacking or threatening stock.

Pet owners are being urged to ensure dogs are properly confined or restrained at all times, with authorities saying prevention remains the most effective way to avoid livestock losses and distress for both producers and animals.