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A recent dog attack during a football training session at Tahurangi / Crum Park has highlighted the serious risk off-leash dogs pose to our communities.
A young girl, watching the football training with family members, was attacked by an uncontrolled dog. She will be left with a large scar and a life-long traumatic memory because of this preventable incident.
Auckland Council’s General Manager for Licensing and Compliance, Robert Irvine says this is not an isolated incident and off-leash dog attacks on sports fields are on the rise.
“Similar situations have occurred at other sports grounds where off-leash dogs have rushed at junior players during training,” Mr Irvine says.
“Week after week, dogs are walked off-leash across Auckland’s sports fields while children train, play, and compete; an attack can and does happen so quickly when there are kids running around and a dog is off leash,” he adds.
“This behaviour not only puts children and adults at risk of injury, but it also degrades the quality of our fields. Dog fouling on sports grounds is a persistent problem — one that poses health risks and ruins the experience for players.
Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee Councillor Josephine Bartley, herself a dog lover and owner, says it’s unacceptable to have dogs running uncontrolled across our playing fields.
“No parent wants to see their child land face-first in dog excrement while playing soccer or rugby.
“And not only children, but adults too, deserve a safe, clean environment to train and play,” Councillor Bartley says.
“Dogs must be always kept under control near playing fields. This sort of thoughtless behaviour has serious consequences; let’s keep our sports grounds safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.”
Auckland Council’s regional rule states that dogs are not on most sports playing surfaces at any time. This includes marked football pitches. These areas are for organised sport and recreation — not dog exercise. Dogs may still be allowed away from playing surfaces, including on a leash on the sidelines when sport is being played. Alternative off-leash dog parks and spaces are provided away from playing surfaces.
To find out where your dog can be exercised off-leash click here