Dog-on-dog attacks rise

A Baldivis veterinary nurse has reminded dog owners to ensure puppies are correctly socialised in a bid to reduce the number of dog-on-dog attacks.

Gina Pike said at least one injured dog a day was taken to Baldivis Vet Hospital for emergency treatment following attacks over the past few weeks.

She said one dog had died as a result and several others had sustained puncture wounds and bruising.

“We’ve had one dog in this week that had quite serious injuries after getting into a fight with its male companion over a female on heat,” she said.

“Dogs who live in the same house, particularly males, will often fight over females, possessions and attention from their humans.” Miss Pike said it was vital male puppies were sterilised at six months if they were not intended for breeding.

She said puppy training was a good way to minimise the risk of the dog becoming aggressive towards other canines later in life.

“Another little dog was being carried by its owner when a bigger dog jumped up and attacked it while it was in the boy’s arms,” she said.

“It is the small dogs and cats who end up getting hurt, these things shouldn’t happen and it’s not fair because these guys aren’t the aggressors.”

Miss Pike said aggressive and antisocial dogs should be kept on a lead and muzzled when out walking, and gates should be locked securely when the dogs were at home.