Woman bitten in ‘terrible’ dog attack

A WOMAN was bitten on the leg by a German Shepherd dog in a “terrible ordeal” in North Yunderup.

Joshua Zi Hoffman was fined $1200 and must pay $225 when he appeared in Mandurah Magistrates Court today.

Hoffman pleaded guilty to a dog attack or chase causing physical injury and a dog not held by a leash in certain public places.

Shire of Murray prosecutor Ron Porter said a woman was walking on Tonkin Drive, near Walter Road, on June 24 at 7.35am.

He said the German Shepherd was walking towards her and she gave the dog a wide berth.

However, the dog came toward her and bit her on the thigh. She screamed and the dog snarled and growled.

Mr Porter said the victim backed away, went home and sought medical treatment.

He said a ranger saw the German Shepherd walking on the same day and the dog was impounded.

Hoffman’s lawyer said the dog was usually in a fenced yard and Hoffman did not know how it got out.

She said Hoffman had spent $800 on an electric fence since the incident.

Magistrate Anne Longden was satisfied Hoffman had taken action to secure his property. She granted him a spent conviction.