A northern Tasmanian hobby farmer has described the killing of his alpacas by dogs as like a "slaughter".
Early Sunday morning about 20 livestock, including sheep and alpacas, were killed in the attacks at four properties in the Launceston suburb of St Leonards.
The massacre has prompted Launceston Council to warn dog owners to keep their animals secure or face the consequences.
Hobby farmer John Binns said seven of his alpacas were killed, including six pregnant females.
He said he was shocked by the scene after being alerted by his neighbour.
"I went out to find that there was five of them in one paddock and they were slaughtered, it was all around the head," Mr Binns said.
He found a male alpaca in another paddock.
"[He was] a big animal, and he was doubled up, and his head was severely torn apart, and that was quite sickening."
Mr Binns said he did not hear anything during the night.
"I fed them the night before, and to get up in the morning to see [the results], it's just like a slaughterhouse," he said.
"There'd have to be at least two, and maybe more dogs to do what they did.
"It was devastating to see these animals that you have there basically as pets."
Stray dogs have not been a problem for Mr Binns before.
"The message is, to look after your animals, but the other thing is people who've got dogs keep them locked up at night," he said.
Council trying to identify roaming dogs
Launceston City Council general manager Robert Dobrzynski issued a statement to ask property owners with livestock in St Leonards to remain vigilant, and to report any roaming dogs.
"It is extremely regrettable that the council continues to see instances where dog owners do not fulfil their responsibilities to the community by ensuring dogs are appropriately fenced and secured in yards," he said.
"While such incidents are rare, they have the potential to lead to serious outcomes.
"Aside from the very inhumane way in which other animals or livestock may be injured or killed by roaming dogs, these incidents also incur costs to farmers and others who may be affected."
Mr Dobrzynski said the council believed dog owners should be accountable for the actions of their animals, particularly in instances where dogs attack.
"There can be stiff penalties for dog owners whose dogs attack other animals, and there is also a risk that a dog can be declared a 'dangerous dog' or even destroyed," he said.
The council has issued some guidelines to dog owners:
- Make sure your dog is registered and microchipped.
- Check fence palings, which have a habit of shifting or becoming loose in cold weather.
- Ensure gates are fastened.
- Ensure your dog has access to food, water and shelter at all times.
.png?w=600)
