A greyhound has been officially classified as a dangerous dog after fatally attacking a cat in Stones Corner in 2022, leading to a dispute between its owner, Lisa Dalgliesh, and local authorities.
Ms Dalgliesh argues that her dog, Budd, was startled and acted instinctively rather than aggressively, challenging the ruling that now places strict conditions on his movements and care.
Fatal Stones Corner Attack Raises Concerns
On 15 August 2022, a cat named Coco was killed on Old Cleveland Road, Stones Corner, following an encounter with Budd, a five-and-a-half-year-old rescue greyhound.
Ms Dalgliesh maintains that Coco ran out from nearby bushes, startling Budd and prompting a defensive reaction rather than an unprovoked attack. She describes Budd as a rehabilitated family pet and argues that his classification as dangerous is unfair.

Photo Credit: Pexels
A Second Attack Leads to Dangerous Dog Ruling
Before Ms Dalgliesh could formally dispute any action related to the Stones Corner incident, Budd was involved in a second fatal attack. In April 2023, while on a leash in Greenslopes, he attacked another cat, Mickey, who later had to be euthanised due to the severity of his injuries.
Following this second attack, authorities officially declared Budd a dangerous dog on 7 June 2023. The ruling was based on findings that Budd’s actions were unprovoked and consistent with an unrestrained attack rather than self-defence.
Despite this, Ms Dalgliesh continues to dispute the classification. She contends that the incidents were circumstantial rather than indicative of a behavioural pattern. As a compromise, she has proposed muzzling Budd in public but believes the restrictions placed on him are excessive.
Dog Attacks and Their Consequences
Dog attacks—whether involving other animals or humans—are treated as serious incidents with legal and regulatory consequences.
While aggression is a natural behaviour in dogs, it can arise for various reasons, including fear, territorial instinct, or a history of trauma. If left unmanaged, it can escalate into an attack. Veterinary consultation and behavioural training are recommended for dog owners whose pets show signs of aggression.
Dangerous and Menacing Dog Declarations
Under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, a dog may be declared dangerous or menacing if it has attacked or threatened another person or animal.
A dog is classified as dangerous if:
- It has severely attacked a person or another animal.
- An authorised officer determines the dog poses a serious risk of attacking.
- It has displayed behaviour that caused fear or injury.
- Another local council has previously declared the dog dangerous.
Once declared dangerous, strict conditions apply, including muzzling in public, specific enclosure requirements, and potential euthanasia in severe cases.

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Ongoing Debate Over Dog Safety
Ms Dalgliesh’s case highlights the complexities of dog behaviour, instinct, and aggression, as well as the responsibilities of pet ownership under Queensland law.
In the meantime, Budd, now classified as a dangerous dog, must be registered with the council. He is required to wear a distinctive collar with a yellow and red striped pattern and a muzzle when in public. At home, Budd must be kept in a council-approved enclosure, which must have signs posted near each entrance. He must remain at his registered address, and the council must be notified of any changes in his residence.
For dog attack reports, contact 07 3403 8888.
Published 30-Jan-2025
