DANDENONG STAR JOURNAL
Home » Critical dog attack: Council defends response to neighbours’ complaints

Critical dog attack: Council defends response to neighbours’ complaints

Greater Dandenong Council has previously responded to complaints against dogs at the same property where a woman was critically injured yesterday.

A woman is fighting for life after being mauled by dogs at the Ross Street backyard about 10am on Thursday.

Officers tried to save her from the attack by using pepper spray on the animals, to no effect.

They drew their guns and shot the three animals dead.

Paramedics attended the scene and took the woman to Dandenong Hospital, Ambulance Victoria said.

Greater Dandenong chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said it was “inappropriate to comment” due to the incident being under investigation.

“We are distressed about yesterday’s incident and the injuries to one of our residents. We remain concerned about her welfare.”

The council had received “numerous complaints and concerns” from neighbours about dogs at this property in the past, Weatherill said.

“We have previously taken action in response to those concerns and visited the property.”

One of the incidents was a dog-on-dog attack in July.

“We have commenced a prosecution against another person who lives at that address.

“This matter is due to go to court in November.”

Extra resources had been allocated to ensure the council responded to community concerns in a timely way, Weatherill said.

In the past two years, infringements against animal orders rose by 250 per cent.

“There’s a range of things we can do, from talking to owners and encouraging responsible pet ownership through to prosecution, and is part of a proactive approach to encouraging good pet ownership.”

“We encourage responsible pet ownership, including through animal registration and the vast majority of pet owners are responsible.

“We want to work constructively with our community, and we also don’t shy away from taking enforcement action when warranted.”

Victoria Police are continuing to investigate.

Digital Editions


  • Oasis found in pool-name feedback

    Oasis found in pool-name feedback

    The name Oasis should endure at Greater Dandenong’s newest aquatic centre, according to resident feedback. The Dandenong Wellbeing Centre has been the working title for…

More News

  • Solar fire at Dandenong South warehouse

    Solar fire at Dandenong South warehouse

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 534665 Fire crews were on scene at a solar fire at an industrial warehouse in Dandenong South on 13 February. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV)…

  • Teen pedestrian critically injured in Narre Warren South

    Teen pedestrian critically injured in Narre Warren South

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 534667 A 16-year-old boy was fighting for life after being struck by a car on Pound Road, Narre Warren South on Friday 13 February.…

  • Flowing with life and strength

    Flowing with life and strength

    We can find ourselves sometimes in fear and anxiety for many reasons. The cause might be the death of a loved one, work stress or ongoing worry about broken relationships,…

  • Looking Back

    Looking Back

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 219034 100 years ago 18 February 1926 GIPPSLAND FIRES On Sunday afternoon, the ringing of the fire bell at Dandenong startled residents, many of…

  • What’s On

    What’s On

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 259559 Kwabo dance workshop Join Gracieuse Amah from Kwabo Events in a Kwabo (welcome) dance workshop. Congolese rhythms, movement and cultural expression while learning…