Wentworth police have urged dog owners to ensure that properties are properly secured and fenced to keep their animals inside due to an increase in cases where ferocious dogs have attacked people in the Merewent area.

According to statistics at Wentworth Police Station, a minimum of three cases of people being bitten by ferocious dogs are reported every month.

“This figure is indicative of people who were bitten by dogs owned by people in the community, as well as stray dogs. Cases have been ongoing throughout the year, and we need to send out a stern warning to dog owners,” said Captain Mbuso Gumede, Wentworth police spokesperson.

“Pit bulls, Boerboels and mixed breed dogs are at the top of the list of dogs that have attacked people in their neighbourhoods. Dog owners need to know the laws about owning ferocious and dangerous dogs,” he said.

“There have been cases where pit bulls have jumped the fence of their yards and attacked people on the road. Dog owners need to know that keeping ferocious dogs comes with responsibility and consequences.

“Dogs should not be allowed on the streets. There have been reports of people getting bitten by dogs while their owners take them for a walk in the neighbourhood.

“This is because owners walking their dogs cannot control them, and the dogs break loose and bite people. We encourage people who cannot take care of their dogs or do not want their dogs anymore, to contact the SPCA, who will fetch the dogs, instead of letting them roam around the community.

“Residents should also report stray dogs to the SPCA,” Gumede added.

When reporting having been bitten by a dog, police say it is helpful when the victim knows the address where the dog is from or the name of the owner if the dog is known.

“Police will go check if the dog is vaccinated and follow the procedures thereafter.”

He says owners may be charged for keeping a ferocious or vicious dog and for failing to safeguard a ferocious dog if it is found that they have been reckless and negligent.

“Dog owners will face hefty fines, so it’s best they adhere to the laws,” Gumede added.