A Batemans Bay man has copped a substantial penalty after his dog was proven to have rushed and attacked a teenager delivering pamphlets.

Council’s Environmental Health and Compliance Coordinator, Nathan Ladmore says the judgement in Batemans Bay Local Court is a reminder to dog owners that their pets should not pose a risk to the community.

He says dog owners must ensure their animal is contained within their property when at home, or under effective control and leashed when in a public place.

“Council takes matters of menacing and dangerous dogs seriously. The maximum court-imposed penalty is $11,000 for these types of offences and potential control orders for menacing and dangerous animals include the destruction of the dog,” Mr Ladmore warns.

He says the dog in this case, circled and bit the teenager in September last year while she was letterboxing with her father.

Council rangers contacted the dog’s owner and issued an infringement set by the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998.

The owner challenged Council’s action and elected to take the matter to court where the offence was proven. The magistrate imposed a penalty of $1,300 plus all court costs.

“During the recent review of the Companion Animal Management Plan 2018, the community was very clear about wanting Council to increase the focus on improving responsible pet ownership through a combination of education, compliance, and enforcement, Mr Ladmore says.

“The onus is on dog owners to control and confine their animals.”

To report a dog attack contact Council’s rangers on 4474 0109 or [email protected], for more information about living with pets in the Eurobodalla check Council’s website.