Following a recent incident at a City of Burnside park between an off-leash dog and a local koala, we would like to remind residents to remain vigilant visiting parks and reserves when wild koalas may be present.
September to February is peak koala breeding season, with male koalas more mobile, and young koalas becoming independent and moving away from their mother in search of their own territory. This increased activity results in a high number of reported dog attacks on koalas across both parklands and private property. Early evening and hours of darkness are when koalas are most active and may come down to the ground to move between trees.
It is the responsibility of all dog owners to always retain effective control when accessing public spaces whether dogs are on-leash or off. Please remember, koalas and dogs don't mix.
Burnside local Jarvis, a 13 year old koala, needed help from Koala Rescue as he was bitten on the back and hind leg by an uncontrolled dog. Beulah Park MFS assisted Koala Rescue with a Bronto Skylift in the rescue. Koalas have little fat for protection so internal organs can easily be punctured. Merridy from Koala Rescue, pictured with Jarvis, was concerned about possible damage to his gut because his skin was broken. So Jarvis was rescued and taken to the Koala Rescue clinic for observation. Jarvis was given the all clear by a Vet and later returned to his home.
Left to right: The Beulah Park MFS used a Bronto Skylift to assist Koala Rescue; Merridy from Koala Rescue with Jarvis on the skylift.
Left to right: Jarvis is returned to his home after a Vet assessment; Jarvis taking a nap after the ordeal.
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