Dog attacks are becoming an increasingly prevalent issue in our community, and it is putting the safety of our beloved pets and us as dog owners at risk. Last week my miniature dachshund Duff was attacked and killed by a Bull Arab on his morning walk which has devastated my family. 
 
No party was at fault as all dogs were on a leash, however, the Bull Arab broke free from its dog walker's grip upon passing my sausage dogs and grabbed my little boy. He had no chance against such a big dog. I in no way want to blame the other dog and paint a further bad picture for larger dog breeds, who cop an uncopious amount of unnecessary abuse due to their vicious stereotype, but at the same time this dog did violently kill mine and I want to ensure this never happens again.  
 
Currently, under the Queensland Government’s Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 council can declare a dog dangerous or menacing if they:

-Seriously attacked or caused fear towards a person or animal 
-Another local government has previously declared the dog dangerous

Once a dog has been declared dangerous or menacing, owners face certain repercussions such as paying significantly higher registration fees and keeping the dog on a muzzle at all times when outside. While these are all amazing preventative measures it doesn’t detract from the fact that another dog or person had to die or be seriously injured in order for these precautions to be put into place.  
 
Duff’s life was lost because a dog was entrusted in the hands of someone who was not capable of looking after it. So, I am calling on there to be stricter laws imposed in relation to dog ownership and pet sitting:

-Dogs adopted from shelters/pounds must meet with a professional trainer to work through any past trauma

-Reactive dogs must be muzzled when on walks

-Pet sitting should be treated as a profession, people who believe they can bear the responsibility of looking after dogs must prove their capabilities by showing evidence of attending animal training courses

-Owners entrusting the care of their dog in the hands of a sitter must be fully transparent about their dog, its temperament and triggers
 
I believe every dog deserves to go on a walk and come home to its family after it.