Guilty verdict for dog owner
Court complaints upheld for dangerous dog owner
Logan City Council has successfully prosecuted a Woodridge resident after her dog attacked another person, causing a severe injury, in 2023.
Two complaints relating to breaches of Council’s local laws and Queensland’s Animal Management Act (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 were heard in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court in early May.
The court heard 12 dogs had been kept at the property, which exceeded the two allowed under Council’s local laws. Council officers seized the dogs after the attack.
The dog responsible for the injury was euthanised.
The woman was found guilty and ordered by the court to pay $6,473.40 in fines and costs.
Mayor Jon Raven said the prosecution sent a strong message to all animal owners.
“Owning a pet is a long-term commitment and a privilege, but it also comes with responsibilities,” Cr Raven said.
“Council plays a role in upholding community expectations, and that includes being tough on people whose animals cause harm or injury.”
Over the past four years, the value of animal-related fines issued by Council has more than quadrupled:
- 2020: $51,358
- 2021: $70,702
- 2022: $116,434
- 2023: $277,617
Council successfully advocated for the Queensland Government to strengthen its legislation following a fatal dog attack at Greenbank in 2022 through an industry taskforce convened by the government.
That taskforce will continue to examine further reforms to animal management legislation with a sustained commitment to public safety. It has appointed Cr Raven to represent Council’s policy position.
Additionally, Council’s Animal Management Plan, adopted last year, outlines a zero-tolerance approach to high-risk animal behaviour to ensure public safety and responsible pet ownership.
Learn more about pets and animals in the City of Logan: logan.qld.gov.au/animals