Dog Attack Pack

There are more than 100,000 dog attacks in Australia each year – most of which go unsolved. However, in many of these cases there is ample evidence hidden at the scene – canine DNA evidence. Working with local councils, the police, vet and state government departments, Animal Network can help solve dog attacks through canine DNA analysis.

Animal Network is the only laboratory in Australia accredited for canine forensic DNA testing. This means our reports can be used in criminal and civil court matters.

DNA Identification

Canine DNA is a simple and cost-effective way of accurately identifying individual dogs. Just like humans, every dog has its own unique DNA – just like a fingerprint.

Canine DNA evidence found at the dog attack scene that can be analysed includes:

  • Dog saliva found on the skin or wound of a dog bite victim
  • Dog saliva found on a victim’s clothing
  • Dog Blood (e.g. if injured)
  • Dog hairs
  • Dog faeces
  • Dog saliva on fence palings or other objects

Animal Network uses the most advanced canine DNA testing available. The test is so discriminating that even dogs from the same litter, or in-bred over generations, can be uniquely identified.

In the case of a dog attack, a DNA cheek swab, hair sample or blood sample should be taken from any dogs suspected of being involved. These samples are then crosschecked against canine DNA evidence collected at the dog attack scene.

DNA Dog Attack Pack

Everything needed for taking a canine DNA sample comes in a collection kit that includes:

  • Simple DNA evidence collection instructions
  • Collection Process Form
  • DNA collection swabs
  • Tamper-proof evidence bags
  • Reply paid envelope

These kits are available for purchase through Animal Network for $22 each.

For information regarding sample collection training please contact our customer service team.

Expert Witness

Animal Network is available to provide an expert DNA witness should a court appearance be required. The company regularly provides expert testimony on forensic DNA matters.

Dangerous Dog Database

If a dog is involved in an aggressive act where no harm is done, a precautionary DNA sample can be taken and stored indefinitely. The stored dog’s DNA can be instantly cross-referenced against canine DNA evidence from future attack scenes.

Livestock Attacks

Thousands of sheep, goats and cattle suffer injury and trauma from wandering domestic dogs. In many cases there is ample canine DNA evidence surrounding the injured livestocks’ wounds. Animal Network has worked on dog attacks on sheep, cattle, horses, and on alpacas.

Dog Faeces Analysis

Animal Network is able to use canine faeces for DNA testing. This analysis could help local councils determine the number of offending dogs in local parks and public use areas and, if necessary, help identify them.