Wild dog safety on the Cooloola Coast

Wild dogs are ever-present in the Gympie region, and while the number of sightings in urban area can be low, Gympie Regional Council is again reminding residents of the Cooloola Coast to continue practicing wild dog safety. This comes after a number of recent attacks and domestic pet deaths that were likely caused by wild dogs.

A ‘wild dog’ is a dingo or dingo-hybrid and not a domestic dog dumped or left to roam - this would be a termed a ‘stray dog’. If a ‘stray dog’ is sighted, this should be reported to council so appropriate actions can be taken.

Council would like to remind residents and visitors that wild dogs are declared pest animals on the mainland (outside of large national parks), and although they can look similar to some domestic dogs, they have the potential to be dangerous to humans and our pets. It’s important to note it is an offence to feed or keep wild dogs – interacting with them in this way only leads to further risk to the community and a likely need for control.

“It is not unusual to see wild dogs in Tin Can Bay, Cooloola Cove and Rainbow Beach townships and surrounds”, said Councillor Jess Milne.

“They often wander through and leave again. Unfortunately, if they take up residence, their behaviour towards humans and our pets can change and they become a threat to our safety.

“All pet owners on the coast need to be aware of this and ensure they provide their pets with effective protection at home and when out and about.” Councillor Milne said.

Council encourages the coastal community to report any concerning incidents they may have with wild dogs. Council regularly monitors the situation and works with state department land managers to consider and undertake control measures as needed. These reports of concerning behaviour by wild dogs assist officers to concentrate mitigation efforts as council regularly monitors the situation.

How you can reduce the risk of an unwanted wild dog encounter:

• Dogs attract dogs. Practice responsible pet ownership by putting an effective barrier between your pets and these wild animals (dog-proof fencing); this will reduce the risk of interactions, an attack, or death.
• Keep pets on leads at all times when out on a walk.
• Keep children close and don’t let them walk or play unaccompanied in bushland areas.
• Do not leave food or scraps out where they are accessible.
• Do not feed wild dogs as this will bring them to the area and change their behaviour – it is also an offence and will attract a hefty fine!

Report concerning behaviour/incidents to council on 1300 307 800.