Dog attacks have come under the spotlight in the Thornton area after three dogs without leashes, outside their property, attacked a resident while walking their dog.
Residents want pet owners to act more responsibly, especially during the school holidays with children playing outside.
Wayne Dyason, spokesperson for law enforcement, said the City’s Animal Control Unit (ACU) attends to dog attack cases.
According to Dyason a person who keeps any animal must ensure that it is kept under proper and effective control when it leaves the premises where it is kept and that it does not endanger any person, animal, or property when it leaves the premises.
Failure to do so can lead to a fine of up to R5 000 and/or impoundment of the dog if a court so orders.
Owners’ negligence
The City’s ACU attends to dog-related complaints throughout the metropole which is mainly because of the owners’ negligence.
The City issues fines to owners of dogs who refuse to obey the relevant by-law.
“We also encourage people to report transgression via our PECC so action can be taken to prevent such dog attacks,” Dyason said.
The public can also assist the ACU by providing the details (address, name etc) so that officers can fine the offender.
It will require a statement from the witness who must be prepared to testify in court if the offender denies the accusation.
Complaints
Complaints regarding dogs should be reported to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) by phoning 021 480 7700 from a cellphone and 107 from a landline. Complaints will be dealt with in terms of the Animal Keeping By-law.
- For more information refer to: https://resource.capetown.gov.za/documentcentre/Documents/Bylaws%20and%20policies/Animals%20By-law%202010.pdf
