MAULING VICTIMS RALLY
Victims of dog maulings call for tougher on-the-spot penalties
VICIOUS maulings from unrestrained dogs roaming Far North streets are taking their toll on victims and their pets, and they say it’s time negligent owners paid.
Cairns real estate director Stephen Cordenos, who was attacked by two “killer” hunting dogs while he strolled on the beach, is fighting for harsh onthe-spot fines similar to parking offences for the irresponsible handlers.
He believes the current laws failed to protect the public from “potentially lethal” attacks by off-leash and aggressive dogs, and he’s planning a petition calling for widespread reform.
“I will be lobbying for hefty on the spot fines of $5000, automatically,” he said. “Dog owners who put others at risk need to be severely dealt with and deterred from doing it, similar to a parking fine.
“They should also pay for medical bills incurred by their dogs and never be able to own a pet again.”
Mr Cordenos and his pet Maltese, Khaleesi, are recovering after being set upon at Wonga Beach on Saturday in an incident that had the 56-year-old scared for his life.
The animals involved have been impounded by Douglas Shire Council with the current fine for owners caught with dogs off-leash just $266.
Edge Hill resident Vivian Georgiou said legislation was needed to force owners of dogs that attack to also foot the medical expenses. Her small Lhasa apso was mauled by a bull Arab last year with the veterinary bill topping $9000.
“It’s such a terrifying time when you or your dog is attacked,” she said.
“You love your animal so much but we had to start a GoFundMe page to afford the surgery as the vet still needs to be paid upfront.
“It’s a debt that has been incurred by no fault of your own. The psychological trauma for the dog and owner is the other part that is difficult to put a price on.”
Douglas Shire Council staff visited Mr Cordenos at Mossman Hospital on Saturday night after the vicious attack, and local law officers are investigating. It’s unclear if the two dogs, believed to be pig dogs, would be destroyed.
Councillor Lisa Scomazzon said the incident provided an opportunity to review the strength of laws.
“This attack appears to have been quite distressing,” she said.
“Our laws team are working with the gentleman involved and we hope there is a speedy resolution for him.”