Dog Control Act under the spotlight

The Dog Control Act is criticised for being outdated and not scientifically up to date. Are the rules fair to dogs and their owners?

Having a dog put down is rarely necessary and should be the very last resort, dog trainer and behavioural expert Lisa Sturm says.

“It is important to have a good look at the circumstances that led to the incident and the dog’s general temperament. Behaviour does not exist in a vacuum.

The Dog Control Act is outdated. It was written many decades ago and already then it was not scientifically up to date. Destruction orders need to be much more considered by weighing up actual behaviour science.

Authorities should consider whether any conditions can be imposed to better manage the dog, and whether the dog’s owner has the ability and willingness to comply with the conditions” she says.