Animal Management in Auckland is issuing a warning to residents in the suburb of Mt Albert about a pair of dangerous dogs on the loose, urging them to be vigilant and safeguard their cats. Despite receiving two formal complaints, evidence suggests that there may be more unreported attacks.
A Mt Albert resident, who requested anonymity, shared a distressing encounter when she witnessed two dogs exhibiting predatory behavior while driving in her neighborhood. The resident described the dogs zigzagging as if on a hunt and eventually seizing a cat. The incident was harrowing, with the dogs shaking the cat between them. The witness immediately raised the alarm, and neighbors rushed to the scene.
According to the witness, these dogs match the description of a pair frequently observed in the neighborhood. Aaron Neary, acting manager of Animal Management, suspects that the number of attacks is higher than reported, considering the prevalence of posts on social media and missing cat posters in the area.
Neary assured that Animal Management officers are actively investigating the matter, patrolling the area, visiting properties of interest, and interviewing witnesses. Despite their efforts, the dogs remain elusive.
Local resident and councillor Julie Fairey, aware of the threat posed by these dogs, highlighted the broader issue of roaming canines across Auckland, affecting residents’ sense of safety in their neighborhoods. The surge in the dog population, exacerbated by the pandemic, has strained council services, leading to increased callouts for roaming dogs and dog attacks.
Fairey expressed concerns about the rising demand for pound capacity, suggesting the need for additional shelters to accommodate the growing number of stray or dangerous dogs. The Animal Management annual report recorded 12,737 callouts for roaming dogs and 1,339 callouts for dog attacks on other animals during the period from July 2022 to June 2023.
As Animal Management intensifies efforts to locate the dangerous dogs in Mt Albert, residents are urged to report any sightings of roaming dogs in the area promptly. The situation underscores the need for community vigilance and responsible pet ownership to ensure the safety of both residents and their pets.
