Animal Welfare League QLD launches free dog bite prevention workshops

In light of recent legislative changes introduced by Queensland Parliament imposing stricter penalties for irresponsible dog owners, Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) is announcing a series of free community workshops focused on dog bite prevention and responsible dog ownership.

“As a strong advocate for animal welfare and public safety, AWLQ fully supports these new regulations and is committed to helping educate and empower the community with the knowledge and skills necessary to create safer environments for both dogs and people,” said Katie Garrett, CEO
of AWLQ.

“These workshops aim to enhance awareness regarding common dog behaviours, improve the safety of interactions between dogs and humans and educate parents and carers of young children.”

“They will also benefit workers whose jobs might require them to regularly interact with dogs, such as delivery drivers, Australia Post and meter-reading workers.” Ms Garrett said.

The educational workshops, led by AWLQ’s expert animal behaviourists, are designed to help participants better understand dogs and avoid the triggers that can lead to aggressive, anxious or misunderstood behaviours.

The workshops will be held across Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast and Logan from October 2024 – February 2025 and will cover:

Understanding Dog Behaviour: Insights into the instincts that drive dog behaviour, helping
owners comprehend their dog’s actions and motivations.
Reading Dog Body Language: Learn to identify the subtle signs of anxiety, fear, or
aggression, crucial for preventing incidents.
How to Respond: Practical techniques to calmly and safely handle interactions with dogs in
various situations.
Safety Tips: Essential guidance for reducing the risk of dog bites and ensuring the safety of
both humans and dogs, especially children.

These workshops are ideal for families, dog owners and any community members interested in learning about fostering more positive interactions with dogs.

The first workshop will be held on Thursday, 10th October at Robina Community Centre from 6pm – 7.30pm.

Places are limited and bookings are essential. For more information, visit https://www.awlqld.com.au/dog-bite-prevention-ws/

–ENDS–

For all media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:
Caroline Esera
Marketing & Communications Manager
0431 658 934
[email protected]

About Animal Welfare League Queensland
Founded in 1959, AWLQ has become a trusted leader in animal welfare. We provide a safe haven and second chance for more than 10,000 stray and homeless animals annually. To each of these animals we welcome through our doors, we promise never to euthanise a healthy, sociable, or
treatable animal in our care. In addition to our shelter work, we are committed to keeping pets and people together by providing lifesaving support and resources to people in need with companion animals. We are known for our grassroots and innovative community-based animal welfare work, including our community vet clinic