If a dog attacks a person or an animal, it's important to seek medical or veterinary treatment and report the incident as soon as possible. Quick reporting helps us investigate the incident, locate the dog and reduce the risk of further attacks.
What to do after a dog attack
If you or your pet has been injured, seek medical or veterinary treatment as soon as possible.
If the attack occurred in the City of Mitcham, contact our Community Safety team on 1300 133 466 to report the incident.
If the dog is still at large and poses an immediate risk to people or animals, call us straight away.
Report a dog attack
The more information you can provide, the easier it is for us to investigate.
When reporting a dog attack, try to include:
- The date, time and exact location of the incident
- A description of the dog, including breed, colour, markings and any registration details
- A description of the owner, if known
- Details of any injuries
- Photographs of injuries, if available
- Vehicle details if the dog was transported from the scene
You should also keep copies of any medical reports, veterinary records and related expenses.
What happens after a dog attack is reported?
Once a report is received, our authorised officers may:
- Take a statement from you
- Photograph injuries to people or animals
- Contact the dog's owner
- Speak with witnesses
- Collect and assess evidence
- Investigate the circumstances of the incident
After reviewing the evidence, we will determine whether enforcement action is required.
Who is responsible for a dog attack?
Dog owners are responsible for their dog's actions.
Under South Australian legislation, it is an offence for a dog to attack, harass or chase a person, another animal or a bird owned by a person.
Depending on the circumstances and severity of the incident, we may:
- Issue a warning
- Issue an expiation notice
- Commence court proceedings
- Issue a control order
- Seek a destruction order in serious cases
The maximum penalty for a dog attack is $50,000.
Owning a dog that may pose a risk
Owning a dog that may pose a risk to people or other animals carries additional responsibilities.
You must take reasonable steps to prevent incidents and ensure your dog is managed safely at all times.
This may include:
- Keeping your dog securely confined on your property
- Using a lead in public places
- Using a muzzle where required learn more at the Muzzle Up Project
- Complying with any control order conditions
- Providing appropriate training and behaviour management
Failing to meet these responsibilities may result in fines, prosecution or the seizure of your dog.
Preventing dog attacks and bites
Most dogs bite because they are frightened, in pain, anxious or feel threatened. Understanding your dog's behaviour and responding early can help reduce the risk of an incident.
You can help prevent dog bites by:
- Socialising your dog from an early age
- Avoiding situations that cause stress or anxiety
- Attending training or obedience classes
- Learning to recognise signs that your dog is uncomfortable
- Speaking with your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of aggression
Desexing may also help reduce some unwanted behaviours and is mandatory in most circumstances unless an exemption applies.
For more information about responsible dog ownership, visit the Dog and Cat Management Board.