Pacino case highlights responsibilities of dog owners

12/2/98

Events in the District Court in recent days had emphasised the responsibilities of dog owners, Local Government Minister Paul Omodei said today.

"The conviction of Giovanni Pacino is a tragedy for him and his family just as the fatal attack on Mrs Chokolich was for her and her family," Mr Omodei said.

"The point for all of us to focus on, however, is not the tragedy but the responsibility that each of us has for the choices we make in life.

"Those who choose to own dogs are responsible for their behaviour and the consequences of that behaviour.

"The responsibility may be greater on those with large dogs of the kinds that have been proven to be responsible for a disproportionate number of attacks on humans, but even very small dogs have been known to cause serious injury to children.

"All owners have a responsibility to ensure that their dogs are well-trained and will respond to commands.

"If a dog shows any signs of behavioural problems, owners should take remedial action.

"Parents also have a responsibility to ensure that their children are taught at least the basics of animal behaviour and interaction with dogs.

"There are large numbers of dog clubs and dog obedience classes available around the metropolitan area and in the larger country centres, so there is little excuse for failing to take action.

"The Dog Act gives local governments the authority to take action against dogs which are considered dangerous, but the real solution lies in people taking responsibility for their pets."