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A dog attack on stock in West Dubbo has prompted a reminder about big fines and jail sentences. "The owner of a dog that attacks can receive an on-the-spot fine of $1320, with a maximum penalty of $77,000, five years imprisonment or both," Dubbo Regional Council manager of environmental control Debbie Archer said. "The owner is also liable for injuries and damages caused." Ms Archer said property owners had the right to destroy a dog if it was endangering stock, but they had to make "all reasonable attempts" to provide vet care if it was injured and notify the owner. "Where captured, an attacking dog may be declared dangerous by council, requiring the dog to live in a highly-secure caged environment with limited family interaction for the rest of its life," she said. "In this case we recommend surrendering the dog for euthanasia." READ ALSO: Ms Archer is calling on residents to "double check their fences and be mindful of how their dogs are secured". "Besides the suffering that stock endure in an attack, the loss of stock through dog attacks can be extremely traumatic for owners due to the horrendous injuries that can be caused as well as significant financial loss incurred," she said. The manager said owners who suspected their dog had been involved in an attack could surrender it to the council's animal shelter at any time. "Council recommends that you speak with the victim where known, offer to compensate for damages and vet bills, communicate that your dog will no longer be an issue, and maintain positive neighbourhood relationships," she said.

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