The Palerang community has long suffered from uncontrolled dogs, but Christmas is often one of the worst times. If you are going away and leaving your dog at home please ensure that they cannot escape. Give them something to relieve their boredom. Remind anyone looking after your dog to make sure that they do not escape.

You may think that your dog is harmless, however sometimes stray dogs approach other dogs being walked on a lead and fights break out. Stray dogs can also form a small pack and cause more trouble than normal.

On Christmas Day last year in Bungendore there were at least three reported attacks caused by a pair of stray dogs.

The Christmas expenses are already higher than normal for some dog owners this year. Some of the issues that Council’s new Ranger dealt with in November include:

* 6 reported dog attacks on animals and people

* 4 fines already issued related to those attacks, totalling $2,200

* 1 Restricted Dog Declaration proposal issued

There were also many dogs impounded, warnings issued to people walking dogs off leash, and notices issued to register dogs. Owners of dogs causing attacks may also have to pay compensation, such as for vet bills and death of livestock.

Council’s offices will be closed between Christmas and New Year, however anyone can take stray dogs to the Queanbeyan Pound. In an emergency, including stray stock on roadsides, call Council’s 24/7 emergency line 1300 735 025. The Police can also be contacted for urgent investigations when Council is closed.

All Council asks is that dog owners properly control their dogs this Christmas so everyone can enjoy the holidays.

Palerang Council Press Release

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM DOGS NSW.

"Puppies shouldn't be chosen as a last minute present to make children smile on Christmas day, but that doesn't mean bringing one into the family as a Christmas present is careless," warns Dogs NSW spokesperson and veterinarian Dr Peter Higgins.

"So long as you consider what you want from a dog and choose the breed accordingly, they can become very important members of the family," says Dr Higgins. “If not, then shelters and pounds will be full of rejected ‘surprise’ pet presents by about mid January. The worst case scenario is people often dump unwanted pets on the side of the road and drive off.”