Dogs not ACC's best friend

Dogs were cited in 237 ACC claims in Wairarapa at a cost of $208,561. The data included all injuries involving the animals, not just attacks. FILE PHOTO

Dogs contributed to injuries costing more than $200,000 in Wairarapa last financial year.

Dogs were cited in 237 ACC claims -- costing $208,561. The data included all injuries involving the animals, not just attacks.

Masterton District Council spokesman Sam Rossiter-Stead said it was the council's role to enforce the Dog Control Act 1996, which was designed to minimise the harm caused by dogs.

"Obviously, a small minority of dogs are classified as dangerous or menacing by breed or deed and all dogs have the potential to pose a risk in certain circumstances.

"We work hard to educate the public about dogs through our extensive range of information brochures and the workshops we hold for schools and other community groups.

Mr Rossiter-Stead said any dog attack was one too many, although they were not a major problem in Masterton compared to many other parts of the country.

Carterton District Council animal and dog control officer Karen Schischka said she didn't consider dogs dangerous animals, though some could be due to their lack of socialisation and responsible ownership.

Carterton had a dog population of 2600 and just two were classified as dangerous.

Ms Schischka said dogs could pose risks of biting, rushing, threatening, intimidation and straying.

Risks could be minimised by attending dog obedience clubs, de-sexing, keeping dogs on properties or on a leash and regular walking and exercise.

"Socialising puppies at an early age is very important, setting boundaries, getting them used to different noises and taking them to many different places where they can meet people especially children," said Ms Schischka.

Dog attacks weren't common in Carterton. The district council had two attacks on people reported during the last financial year.

However, Ms Schischka noted some attacks were not reported to council because of the attack being on a family member or people not wanting to get their friends or neighbours in trouble.

Dogs straying on roads could cause danger to motorists and people trying to rescue them but usually people aren't injured in those circumstances, she said.

According to ACC, horses were the animals most commonly cited in injury claims after dogs. Horses appeared in 153 Wairarapa claims, worth a total of $568,571.

Sheep featured in 147 claims, worth $196,063.

Figures didn't necessarily refer to bites or attacks. They could include accidental injuries involving the animal, such as tripping over a dog.