community, koalas, threatened species, dog attacks, companion animals act, dogs, restricted breed, Tinonee

As if our local population of koalas didn't suffer enough of a hit during the bushfire crisis in November 2019, the surviving koalas populating the village of Tinonee (and elsewhere) have to contend with vicious dogs. Yet again Koalas in Care had to be called to Tinonee in February to rescue a koala that had been attacked by dogs in a back yard. Many of the koalas that are attacked in the village are attacked by dogs that have attacked koalas on multiple occasions. Regardless of where a koala is attacked, whether that be in the wild, in the street, or in someone's back yard, it is an offence by law. It is the responsibility of a dog owner to ensure that their animals does not harass, injure or kill a koala. A brochure published by Mid Coast Council, Protecting Koalas, outlines laws to protect native animals, including koalas, from dog attacks on both public and private land. Related: Death by dog - the fate of many a Tinonee koala "The owner or person in charge of a dog that rushes at, attacks, bites, harasses or chases a koala (whether or not any injury is caused) is guilty of an offence under the Companion Animals Act 1998 for which the maximum penalty is $11,000 (or $44,000 for a dangerous, menacing or restricted dog) and the dog can be seized. A dog killing, injuring or harming a koala may also be an offence under the Biodiversity Act 2016," the brochure explains. Contrary to popular belief, most attacks on koalas on dogs happen in the dog owners' yard or property. If there is more than one dog on the property, it greatly increases the risk of the change of an attack on a koala. If your dog attacks a koala remove the dog from the site of the attack and immediately contact Koalas in Care, a 24 hour rescue service, on 6552 2183 or 0439 406 770. This is essential whether the koala has died from the attack or even if it has not suffered visible injury. If you witness somebody else's dog attacking or harassing a koala, report it immediately to Mid Coast Council on 6591 7222. A dog that has harassed or attacked a koala can be seized up to 72 hours after the event. Also contact Koalas in Care immediately.

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