Council searches for dog that attacked boy
Cassowary Coast Regional Council animal control officers are searching for a dog which attacked a teenage boy in Innisfail on Monday.
The 15-year-old boy, Dean Thompson, was attacked by the dog while visiting a friend in East Innisfail.
The friend’s mother, Rachel Neal, contacted the council at 3.45 pm yesterday to report the dog attack.
Council CEO, Terry Brennan, said two animal control officers were immediately despatched to the Ryan Street address, where they located the dog, which may have been attracted to the property by the Neal’s female dog.
The officers attempted to capture the stray dog using a pole and noose, but the animal was aggressive and resisted their efforts.
“The animal control officers coaxed the dog onto the back of their utility, but it refused to be placed in a cage,” said Mr Brennan.
“They decided to attempt to transport it unsecured, to the Downing Street council pound, rather than risk the animal jumping out and creating more menace in Ryan Street.
“Unfortunately, the dog escaped from the vehicle on the way to the pound.”
The missing dog is unregistered. Mr Brennan said the fate of the animal, if found, would be determined after a full investigation. Having the animal euthanized would be one of the options considered
He appealed to the owner of the dog to contact the council on 4043 2222 and asked residents in East Innisfail to report any stray dogs in the area.
“I would also take this opportunity to urge all dog owners to ensure their properties are adequately enclosed to prevent their animals from roaming,” Mr Brennan said.