Council Officers have the ability to seize and impound dogs found wandering at large in public places may be sold or destroyed after two (3) clear days if not claimed by the dog's owner. Impounding and sustenance fees apply for the release of any dog held at Council's Pound.
Council officers occasionally have cause to seize and impound dogs that present an unacceptable risk to the community due to the aggressive nature of the dogs or if a suitable enclosure to contain the dog does not exist.
The local law provides Council with the power to effect a dog seizure. In these cases, notice will be served on the dog's owner, providing an appeal process, should Council intend to destroy a dog.
Other ways Council may seize and impound an animal includes:
- At the request of the occupier of land where the dog is found wandering at large on the occupier's land.
- The occupier of land seizes an animal found wandering at large on the occupier's land and delivers the animal to an authorised person to be impounded - However note that Council is not obliged to accept the custody of that animal.
If you observe a dog wandering in a public place, please contact Council's Environment and Health Department on (07) 4783 9800 to ensure the dog can be secured in a safe location until its owner can be located.
For further information on dogs, please contact Council.