Dog attacks down

Dogs running free on Rodney beaches remain a touchy topic for many.

But allowing owners to take their pets off the leash at certain times has proved more successful than hoped, judging from a report to be considered by the Rodney District Council community environment committee.

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"However, research clearly indicates that over 60 percent of dog bites occur either on the dog owner?s property, or immediately adjacent."

He says the key to reducing attacks is animal control staff ensuring dogs are confined to their properties or under proper, direct control when off the property.

Mr Knightbridge says that involves a combination of dog education and enforcement.

He believes benefits from the bylaw changes include better dog socialisation and more freedom to exercise dogs.