We need your help! We only have until the 25th of August to collect as much supporting evidence as possible to convince the council that Zissou is a good natured dog. 

He was recently involved in an incident with another dog at Darebin Parklands and a formal complaint was lodged. I, Dane Gosper, was present at the time and witnessed the alleged incident and believe it is simply a misunderstanding.

The Darebin City Council has recently applied a notice of intent to declare Zissou as a "Menacing Dog" as a result of this incident. Which means Zissou will now be forced to wear a muzzle and be on a lead at all times outside our residence. So he wont be able to run around and play with his dog friends anymore or catch his Frisbee as you may know is his bread and butter. We feel the Council's reaction is disproportionate to the situation. Zissou did not run at or attack this other dog. Dogs are animals, this was a standard dog interaction, establishing dominance or general dog politics. At no point did he bite this dog. 

It is our intention as a Steve Zissou’s parents to have these infringements revoked so he can live a normal dog’s life. Free to play and continue to socialise with not only his regular doggy friends, but also all the other dogs he meets in his life. It saddens us to think that Zissou will no longer be able to be able to do the things he loves most, like running around the park being chased and playing tug-of-war with his dog friends.

We are asking you to sign this petition to save Zissou’s freedom, dignity and value of life. We know, as his parents, he is a kind, gentle, energetic and beautiful dog who needs access to big park areas to run just like everyone’s dog who has had the chance to play with him. If you believe him to not be a "Menacing Dog" please sign this petition. If you would like to add a comments regarding his character please feel free to do so.

Forever grateful
Dane Gosper and Nina Roxburgh