Council investigates dog attacking cyclists

Baw Baw Shire is investigating two reports of a dog allegedly attacking cyclists in the Hallora area in the past week.

A female cyclist required medical treatment after being bitten on the leg by a dog while riding in a group on the Torwood-Topiram Rd last Wednesday.

Four days later, a group of cyclists riding in the same area on Sunday was alarmed by the dog menacing and attacking cyclists as they rode along the same road.

Council has confirmed it received a report of an attack last Wednesday and the matter was being investigated.

Council said it received a second report yesterday and compliance officers were speaking to the person to gain the required information for a formal investigation.

It is believed the dog, a dark coloured Staffordshire-type breed, has been menacing and attacking cyclists for several weeks.

The woman who was bitten last week suffered several lacerations to her leg and said the attack only stopped when other cyclists came to her aid.

A second attack is reported to have occurred on Sunday but no one suffered injuries.

Shire community assets director Cohen Van der Velde said council officers were continuing to follow up the incidents and reports.

He said part of the essential information required for a formal investigation included contact details of the alleged victim or witnesses.

“An officer is currently investigating, including gathering statements and evidence in order to determine appropriate action,” he said.

Mr Van der Velde said they could not comment on the status of the dog until the investigation was completed.

“Seizure of a dog depends on the circumstances of the incident, the nature of the injuries and the determined risk posed by the animal,” he said.