Karl Stefanovic's German Shepherd, Chance, has been placed on an internal Australia Post warning system after being declared a dangerous dog earlier this year. The eight-year-old dog, known colloquially as "Chance the Yapper," is now flagged in Australia Post's system to alert delivery personnel to potential hazards at properties where the dog has resided or been cared for.
Australia Post confirmed the existence of warnings related to properties associated with Chance, though a spokesperson stated that no postal workers have been subjected to an attack by the dog at either of the two Castlecrag properties linked to the alert. Chance has recently been observed in public walks while wearing a muzzle.
The warning to postal workers comes as Stefanovic and his wife, Jasmine, navigate the consequences of an April incident that led to the North Sydney Council officially declaring Chance a dangerous dog. Residents in the Sydney suburb have reportedly expressed concerns about the dog's temperament.
Incident and Control Order
The incident occurred on April 18 near an Ampol service station on Military Road in Neutral Bay. At the time, Chance was being walked by an individual other than Karl or Jasmine Stefanovic. Court documents described the event as unprovoked and resulting in a "serious injury" to the person involved. An initial report that Chance had attacked another dog was later corrected by the North Sydney Council.
On July 15, the council issued the dangerous dog declaration. An initial proposal required Chance to be kept in a backyard enclosure and a dangerous dog sign to be displayed at the property, with potential for the dog to be euthanized if conditions were not met. The Stefanovics contested this declaration.
Following legal action initiated by Jasmine Stefanovic in Hornsby Local Court on August 6, an agreement was reached between the council and the couple. This resulted in a four-year control order.
Under the terms of the control order, Chance must be muzzled and leashed at all times when in public. The Stefanovics are also required to install a warning sign at their home within two weeks. The sign must be at least 40cm by 40cm, with specific lettering dimensions. Additionally, Chance must complete behavioral or socialisation training with a qualified expert within six months, with proof of completion to be provided to the council. Breaching the control order carries significant penalties, including substantial fines, potential imprisonment, and the possibility of the dog being euthanized.