Homes NSW says it can’t do anything about more than a dozen dogs on one of its properties, despite the fact the dogs regularly escape and frighten neighbours . Photo: Michele Tydd.
The home of a pack of dogs that continue to roam Bulli is “secure”, according to Homes NSW which owns the property.
It is understood at one point there were nine adult dogs and 19 puppies on the property, but a number of puppies have since been rehomed.
There is no limit on the number of animals tenants of Homes NSW are permitted to keep as long as they “do not interfere with the peace, comfort and privacy of neighbours”, according to legislation.
Members of the Bulli community have reported being harassed by the dogs on a number of occasions and video footage has been shared online of a pack of dogs barking and lunging at another dog secured in its backyard.
Authorities, including Homes NSW and Wollongong City Council, have said there isn’t anything they can do to address the issue until the dogs attack or kill a person or animal.
“Homes NSW is working with the Wollongong City Council and our tenant to reduce the number of dogs at the property,” a Homes NSW spokesperson said.
“We found the property to be secure on our visits there and the RSPCA attended the property and confirmed there is no issue with the welfare of the puppies or dogs.
“We do not have a policy that stipulates the number of dogs that can be kept at a property.”
Homes NSW has denied responsibility for the dogs, despite a clause which stipulates tenants must remove any pet within 48 hours if the landlord (Homes NSW) provides written notice that the pet is not suitable to be kept on the premises.
Residents fear it’s only a matter of time before the dogs cause serious harm.
Witnesses estimate between six and 11 dogs make up the pack and say they have been menaced on walks, including with their children. They claim the dogs are responsible for the death of a pet rabbit.
The council has powers to seize or destroy dogs that are deemed dangerous, however, for a dog to be declared dangerous it must first attack or kill a person or dog without provocation.
A Wollongong City Council spokesperson previously said the council did not have the evidence needed to instigate dangerous dog enforcement procedures.
The spokesperson urged anyone who was attacked or menaced by loose dogs to document the incident to the best of their ability via notes, photos or video, and encouraged residents to continue to report any issues.
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