General News
9 June, 2026
Leash your dog, says Agriculture Victoria senior vet
Dog attacks are becoming a frequent hazard to livestock like sheep and other cattle on farmland.
These incidents typically occur when owners fail to secure their dogs, allowing them to trespass onto private property.
Dr Jeff Cave, an Agriculture Victoria senior veterinary officer, notes the damage a stray dog can potentially cause on farmland.
“One of my most vivid childhood memories was of a dog attack on the sheep on our neighbour’s property,” Dr Cave said.
“For our neighbour’s sheep, it was carnage with dead and injured sheep across the paddock.
"The dog involved was caught and euthanised, which also left me sad and angry since it was somebody’s pet, and it seemed like a nice, friendly dog.”
Dr Cave advises Wimmera pet owners to keep their dogs under control, noting that dog owners can be held liable for their pets' actions and any resulting damages.
“It’s worth remembering that dogs have an instinct to roam and hunt,” he said.
“If allowed to wander, a dog can cause considerable damage in a short amount of time.”
The easiest way to prevent a dog attack from occurring is to keep your dog confined or restrained.
For further information on reporting a stray dog or a dog attack, contact your local council.