Attacks and Bites

Dog Attacks: What to Do and What to Expect

Being involved in a dog attack or any incident of canine aggression can be distressing — whether you’re the victim, a witness, or the dog owner. Hurunui District Council is committed to managing these situations fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the Dog Control Act 1996.

If an incident has just occurred

1. Get medical or veterinary help first

If anyone (human or animal) is injured, please seek first aid or immediate veterinary treatment first.

2. Call us once you are safe

After urgent care is taken, please phone 03 314 8816.
Calling allows us to respond quickly.

Online reporting can be used for non‑urgent or historic incidents where there is no ongoing risk.

If You Are the Victim of a Dog Incident

1. Initial response

An Animal Control Officer will attend the scene, ensure safety, and gather basic information, such as:

• Contact details
• A brief description of the incident
• Details from others involved.

2. Cooling‑off period (1–2 days)

Because these events can be upsetting, we usually wait 1–2 days before taking your formal statement.

3. Formal statement

We will contact you to arrange a suitable time to take a formal statement to ensure accuracy and completeness.

We can meet you in person to take your statement (at your home or one of our service centres), or you can choose to give your statement over the phone.

4. Investigation

The investigation may involve:

• Witness statements
• Photographs or video footage
• Veterinary or medical reports
• Site inspections.

5. Outcome

Once all evidence is reviewed, appropriate action under the Dog Control Act may include:

• A warning or infringement
• Menacing or dangerous dog classification
• Prosecution in serious cases.

We will keep you informed throughout.

If Your Dog Has Been Involved in an Incident

1. Initial response

When officers attend, they will assess safety and determine what is needed to prevent further risk. Your dog may be:

• Temporarily impounded while the incident is investigated, or
• Left in your care if the officer is satisfied the dog is securely contained and presents no immediate risk.

This decision is based on safety, risk, and legal obligations.

2. Statements and investigation

Over the following days, officers will gather information including:

• Statements from witnesses and involved parties
• Photographs or video
• Veterinary or medical reports
• Site inspections.

You will be contacted to provide your account.

3. What happens to your dog

Impounding does not mean your dog will be euthanised.
Dogs may be impounded to protect public safety while the facts are being established.

A dog can only be euthanised if:

• A court orders it, or
• You choose to have your dog euthanised.

Once the investigation is complete, Council will determine what action is appropriate. This may include:

• Issuing warnings or infringement notices
• Classifying the dog as menacing or dangerous
• Prosecution in more serious cases.

We will communicate clearly with you throughout the process.

4. Your rights and responsibilities

You have the right to:

• Be informed of any proposed actions
• Respond to Council’s proposed actions
• Ask questions at any time.

We encourage cooperation with the investigation to help us reach a fair outcome.

Reparations and Costs

Dog owners are legally responsible for any damage, injury, or loss caused by their dog. This may include:

• Veterinary bills
• Medical costs
• Damage to pets, stock, or property.

Council does not have the authority to require an owner to pay reparations. Recovery of costs is a civil matter between the parties involved and may require:

• Direct agreement between parties, or
• A Disputes Tribunal or civil court claim.

Council can provide documentation from the investigation to support your claim.

Encouraging early reparations

If your dog has caused injury or damage, we encourage you to make an early offer to cover reasonable costs.
While reparations are a civil matter, taking proactive steps to address the harm caused can be considered in the enforcement decision. Demonstrating remorse, responsibility, and co‑operation may influence the type of action Council takes under the Dog Control Act.

Support Services

Dog attacks can be emotionally distressing. Support is available:

Victim Support

Victims of dog attacks may be eligible for emotional support.
0800 842 846
victimsupport.org.nz

Your GP

If you need emotional or mental wellbeing support, please contact your GP.

Need help or want to report an incident?

Call us immediately: 03 314 8816

Online reporting is suitable for non‑urgent incidents.