Shon
05-19-2004, 05:35 PM
Victorians have failed to register their pit bull terrier dogs as required by tough new regulations introduced a year ago.
The RSPCA says there are thousands of pit bulls and pit bull crosses in Victoria but only 413 have been registered.
RSPCA president Hugh Wirth says owners are using a loophole in the regulations by registering their dogs as cross breeds or not registering them at all.
Under the law, pit bull owners have to keep the dogs locked up behind secure childproof fences.
Dr Wirth says the Government should introduce a de-sexing program to rid the community of the dangerous dogs.
"The RSPCA pressed for that when the law was being drafted but that was rejected by the Government," he said.
"We still maintain that if you're going to lower the population quick de-sexing of these dogs is essential".
Dr Wirth says local councils are not enforcing the laws and people concerned should complain to the State ombudsman.
The RSPCA says there are thousands of pit bulls and pit bull crosses in Victoria but only 413 have been registered.
RSPCA president Hugh Wirth says owners are using a loophole in the regulations by registering their dogs as cross breeds or not registering them at all.
Under the law, pit bull owners have to keep the dogs locked up behind secure childproof fences.
Dr Wirth says the Government should introduce a de-sexing program to rid the community of the dangerous dogs.
"The RSPCA pressed for that when the law was being drafted but that was rejected by the Government," he said.
"We still maintain that if you're going to lower the population quick de-sexing of these dogs is essential".
Dr Wirth says local councils are not enforcing the laws and people concerned should complain to the State ombudsman.