TRC’s regional services manager Ross Briggs said the dog’s owners were “horrified” about the extent of 82-year-old David Hopper’s injuries, identified themselves to Tamworth police within a few days of the story in The Northern Daily Leader on March 12 and they are taking the right steps to re-train the dog.

“Council has spoken to the owners and an in- fringement notice and on-the-spot fine have been issued,” Mr Briggs said.

“A draft notice has been issued as part of a menacing dog order and we are satisfied the owners are adhering to requirements and are taking the right steps to correct the dog’s behaviour.

“We expect their re-sponse to the order very soon.”

He said council is satisfied the dog is in a secure yard.

“The owners have had to restrict the dog’s exercise to their backyard until it undergoes and passes the training needed to correct its behaviour.”

Written evidence of this training from a qualified trainer is required as part of the order.

The dog will have to be desexed, only led by a responsible adult over 18 years of age and wear a muzzle in public places.

When told of the council’s actions with the dog owner, bite victim Mr Hopper said he was pleased the dog wasn’t go- ing to come to any harm and that action has been taken to prevent someone else finding themselves in his situation.

He thanked the owners for coming forward.

“This incident highlights that even if a dog is on a lead, if you don’t know the animal, give it some room,” Mr Briggs said.