A Christchurch City Council is considering euthanizing two dogs following an attack in the Brywndwr suburb on Friday that left one person in critical condition, another seriously injured, and a third with minor injuries. Animal control officers seized the dogs after the incident.
Fendalton ward councillor David Cartwright described the attack as “absolutely devastating,” stating, “My thoughts go out to [the victims], their family, and obviously the first responders who would have been faced with what I understand is quite a gruesome situation when they arrived.” Cartwright indicated that staff will investigate the dogs’ behavior, with potential euthanasia considered if they are deemed “violent or uncontrollable.”
The decision regarding the dogs’ fate will follow a thorough investigation, including collaboration with police and witness interviews to confirm the correct animals have been impounded, Cartwright said. The Dog Control Act allows for the impoundment of dogs involved in attacks on people or other animals.
The incident occurs amid growing calls for stricter dog control legislation in New Zealand, following the death of 62-year-old Mihiata Te Rore in Kaihu, Northland, earlier this week. Te Rore’s death marks the fourth fatal dog attack in New Zealand in the past four years, with three of those occurring in Northland. Elizabeth Whittaker was killed in a 2023 attack, and Neville Thomson died in 2022. A four-year-old boy likewise died in an attack in the Bay of Plenty last year.
Cabinet minister Shane Jones, a Northland local, has publicly stated that current laws are inadequate and that “homicidal dogs” are a worsening problem in the region. Jones has advocated for significantly harsher penalties for dog owners, including substantial jail terms, to ensure accountability. He stated that dog owners “must be held accountable with hefty jail terms.”
Cartwright also indicated he intends to request a review of local bylaws related to dog control. However, he believes a comprehensive review of the national Dog Control Act would have the most significant impact on preventing future attacks.
Christchurch City Council has deferred further comment to police, who are currently investigating the Brywndwr attack. The outcome of the police investigation and the council’s subsequent review will determine the fate of the dogs involved and potentially influence future dog control policies in the region.
