Furious neighbors allege that serious warnings about three aggressive dogs owned by a public housing tenant were repeatedly ignored, leading to two separate maulings. Residents stated they had raised concerns with the RSPCA, local council, and housing authorities about the dogs at the St. James property, located seven kilometers from Perth's CBD, but claim no action was taken.
Western Australia Police confirmed officers were present at the property on Saturday for an unrelated matter when a female visitor was allegedly attacked by the three dogs, sustaining serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Terrifying footage obtained by 6PR's Rumour File appears to document a separate alleged attack where a man was mauled by two large dogs and dragged to the ground. A bystander intervened, momentarily driving one dog away, but the victim was attacked again as he attempted to regain his footing. The man was then seen limping across the street, pursued by the dogs, and was knocked to the ground as one leaped at him.
The footage has intensified anger among neighbors who assert they had warned authorities that someone was likely to be seriously injured. An RSPCA WA spokeswoman clarified that responsibility for dealing with aggressive dogs and attacks falls under the Dog Act, which is enforced by local councils. She stated that RSPCA WA inspectors are authorized to enforce the Animal Welfare Act 2002, which pertains to animal cruelty matters.
The Dog Act stipulates that it is an offense for a dog to attack or chase a person or another animal, irrespective of injury. The Town of Victoria Park's website advises residents to report incidents to council rangers promptly. Under the legislation, owners of dogs that attack can face fines and other penalties. The Act also empowers councils to declare a dog 'dangerous' if it attacks, shows a tendency to attack, or repeatedly rushes, threatens, or chases people or animals. The Town of Victoria Park has been contacted for comment.
Public reaction on social media included calls for the dogs to be euthanized, with some commenters suggesting that dog behavior is often a result of inadequate training.