The number of dog attacks in Central Otago has increased over the past year as a result of poor dog owner management, the Central Otago District Council says.

In a report presented to council last week from team leader enforcement and animal control Ryan Parker, the number increased from 24 to 37 - made up of a mixture of minor attacks (13), serious (12) as well as attacks on other dogs (12).

Dog rushing increased from 16 to 26, but barking dog complaints was the largest issue - with a 38% increase (40 complaints) received.

Ryan said this may be reflective of the community being more likely to report such incidents, knowing council does take action on such matters.

He said with regard to dog attacks on a person or animal, the incident can be extremely distressing to all parties involved.

There were currently no disqualified dog owners in Central Otago, but one probationary owner. 

None were classified as dangerous but 19 have been classified as menacing from their observed or reported behaviour, and a further four based on their breed.

Council continued to work with dog owners to microchip their animals under legislation that came into effect in 2006, which continued to be an area of focus.

There are currently 1411 dogs not microchipped and also an increase from just three to 20 owners failing to register their dog in the past year.

Similarly, 26 owners failed to keep their dog controlled or confined - up from 23 the previous year.

In total, council received a total of 666 service requests last year, including 97 owners notifying of lost dogs - an increase of 12% on the previous year.

“Dog control is a high area of focus for the Central Otago District Council, which strives to undertake the following key factors: (a); to have all dogs that live in the district registered (b); ensure all dogs are kept under control at all times and (c); ongoing education of dog owners regarding their responsibilities and obligations.”

Ryan said the number of roaming dogs remained the second largest issue, with a 43% increase (36) from the previous year.

“Roaming dogs can frighten, intimidate, and annoy the community in addition to potentially attacking people and other dogs. Additional patrols and communications regarding responsible dog ownership were undertaken through the year.”