A young girl has been left with a “large scar” and a “life-long traumatic memory” after a dog attack at a park in Auckland’s Titirangi.
The incident took place during a recent football training session at Tahurangi/Crum Park.
Auckland Council said it has highlighted the “serious risk” off-leash dogs pose to the community.
The young girl, who was watching the football training with family members, was attacked by the dog, which was uncontrolled.
Dog attacks on the rise
Auckland Council general manager for licensing and compliance, Robert Irvine, said it was not an isolated incident and off-leash dog attacks on sport fields are on the rise.
“Similar situations have occurred at other sports grounds, where off-leash dogs have rushed at junior players during training.
“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.”
Irvine said the behaviour not only puts children at risk of injury, but it also degrades the quality of fields.
“Dog fouling on sports grounds is a persistent problem — one that poses health risks and ruins the experience for players.”
‘Thoughtless behaviour’
Meanwhile, chair of the regulatory and safety committee, councillor Josephine Bartley, who is a dog lover and owner, said it is absolutely unacceptable to have dogs running uncontrolled across 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.”
She said dogs must be kept under control at all times near playing fields, and this sort of “thoughtless behaviour” has serious consequences.
What are the council’s rules?
Dogs are not allowed on most sports playing surfaces at any time, including marked football pitches, according to Auckland Council regional rules.
The council said the areas are for organised sport and recreation, and not dog exercise.
Dogs may still be allowed away from playing surfaces, including on a leash on the sidelines when sport is being played, the council said.
“Alternative off-leash dog parks and spaces are provided away from playing surfaces.”
