Marauding Dogs

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30178, 9 July 1963, Page 12

Marauding Dogs

Recent attacks by Alsatian dogs on livestock in the vicinity of the Port Hills justify public disquiet as well as the indignation of the property-owners directly affected. The attacks have occurred on the fringe of the urban area, where not only animals but children may be endangered. Inevitably they must revive controversy about the special characteristics of the Alsatian dog; but long experience has shown’ that many other breeds are also liable to worry stock if they are insufficiently exercised and allowed to get out of control. In cramped city surroundings. big dogs such as Alsatians tend to create serious problems. An apparent increase in the popularity of Alsatians as household pets is. therefore, to be regretted. Because of the pastoral basis of its economy, New Zealand has been well provided since the early colonial period with sanctions against injury to

livestock. The enforcement of these laws presents formidable difficulties, which have not been lessened by the encroachment of cities upon the countryside. Frequently the ownership of marauding dogs cannot be proved satisfactorily; and a successful civil claim for damages is a rarity. Every dog-owner is under a personal duty to prevent damage and annoyance to other persons. Unfortunately, dog ownership does not always connote common sense or recognition of this duty. When negligence or carelessness can be attributed conclusively to owners, the police should press for exemplary penalties. Local authorities can help, also, by campaigns against unregistered and stray dogs. Stock worrying is a problem that may not appear to concern many city dwellers. But dogs commonly travel miles to attack stock; and the countryman is entitled to support for legitimate attempts to protect his property against avoidable damage.