JUSTICE FOR HARRY: GREYHOUND COMMUNITY CALL ON COUNCIL TO ACT AFTER GREYHOUND DEATH

The Greyhound Adoptions WA (GAWA) team and wider greyhound community were left in shock after one of our dedicated committee members lost her big gentle greyhound Harry after a vicious and unprovoked dog attack near her home in Safety Bay.

On Tuesday 29^th September, Harry and his bonded mate Bongo were on a routine walk with their owner when a loose dog that freed itself from its walkers grip cornered Harry & Bongo and their owner in an alleyway and attacked Harry. Harry was severely injured and was rushed to Baldivis Emergency Vets where everything was done to save his life. Harry died the following day.

Despite the seriousness of this attack, the City of Rockingham have failed to act. No fines have been issued or efforts to declare this dog as dangerous. Harry’s owners have urged the council to take action to ensure this dog does not attack and kill again. A dog that can attack & kill an innocent dog like this should be muzzled in public and extra controls should be in place to protect the community.

We would like to see the Dog Act 1976 enforced and taken seriously by the City of Rockingham. Failing to act against irresponsible dog owners will only result in more attacks and tragic outcomes for families. If penalties are not handed down for attacks, dog owners will be less inclined to take precautions with aggressive dogs if they know there are little consequences should anything go wrong.

Greyhounds in particular are vulnerable to serious injury as they have thin skin that can easily tear and cause open wounds. They, and other vulnerable dogs need protection from authorities.

It is disappointing to see so much disparity across local governments when it comes to enforcing the Dog Act 1976. We’d like to see greater consistency.

We’d also like to see dog owners to take greater responsibility and use a muzzle in public when required. Just like greyhound owners do.

Comments may be attributed to Toni Donnelly.