DOG attacks and complaints have risen significantly in recent weeks and the City of Busselton is warning dog owners to do the right thing or be fined.

Since October 1st 2007, Rangers have received 19 dog attack complaints, 48 complaints about dogs wandering, 12 calls from frustrated residents regarding dogs barking excessively and 34 other general complaints about dogs.

The Shire's Coordinator of Ranger & Fire Services, Tim Wall said "If you own a dog, you have a legal responsibility to keep it under control, either within a fenced area on your property or on a leash when in public".

"Unfortunately, from the frequency of calls made to Rangers lately, it appears that some members of the community are simply ignoring this legal requirement and their responsibility."

The message is clear Mr Wall said "Keep your loved dog fenced in and when exercising the animal, keep it on a leash and clean up after it, otherwise be prepared for an on-the-spot fine."

The most common complaint received from distressed dog owners, out walking their leashed dog, is that they have been attacked by a dog that was either left alone in the front yard of an unfenced home, or a dog that is being walked without a leash by a fellow local dog owner.

"Responsible pet owners and their dogs are often targets of these unprovoked attacks. Everyone is entitled to walk in their neighbourhood without being harassed or attacked by uncontrolled and often quite frightening dogs," Mr Wall said.

"It is just not good enough if you are outside a designated dog exercise area carrying a leash that is not fastened to a dog."

When in a dog exercise area the person in control of the dog must be carrying a leash and have verbal control of the dog at all times. As the owner you can be given an on-the-spot fine of $100 for not having your dog on a leash or for allowing it to roam. If the matter goes to court the penalty could be as high as $1000.

If your dog attacks a person, or even an animal such as another dog, you could be liable for a fine of up to $10,000 and 12 months imprisonment or both.  You may also have to pay for any loss or damage to personal property, medical and veterinary costs suffered by the aggrieved party.

"It's not only the dog owner who is responsible for the dog concerned, but also anyone who is in control of the dog at the time of the offence."

"The Shire also receives many calls regarding dog excreta that has not been adequately disposed of by dog owners exercising their animals. This again is an offence and fines exist to enforce those in charge of the dog at the time to clean up after the animal, particularly on footpaths and on recreational areas such as beaches and parks."

"As a consequence, the Shire Rangers will be increasing their patrols within the community and handing out on-the-spot fines to those in charge of the dog at the time causing an offence to the community."

"It is important that dog owners respect other citizens so that everyone can enjoy the quality lifestyle that the City of Busselton provides its residents", Mr Wall said.

END.

Media enquiries can be directed to the Shire's Public Relations Officer, Julie Rawlings on 97810446 or julie.rawlings@busselton.wa.gov.au