The number of dog attacks in the Hauraki district have spiked during the Covid-19 shutdown, jumping from one attack every two months to one or two per day.
Hauraki District Council planning and environmental services group manager Peter Thom said most of the attacks involved dogs leaving their properties to attack other dogs as they’ve walked past with their owners.
“It’s important people get out for fresh air and exercise in their local neighbourhood, and they need to feel safe to do this. Dog owners must make sure their pets are secured inside their properties, or on a leash if they’re being taken for a walk,” he said.
“We all play a part in keeping each other safe during this lockdown and part of this is remembering our responsibilities as dog owners.”
Most council dog control activities have been suspended during the lockdown period however council staff will still respond to safety issues such as dog attacks.
