Extendable Bite Sticks
SPCA advocates that bite sticks should only be carried or utilised by people who follow strict procedural guidelines, are properly trained, understand the circumstances that are appropriate for the use of bite sticks, and who are at risk of encountering aggressive animals.
Extendable bite sticks are telescopic batons designed to be used as personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent the occurrence of injuries from an aggressive animal. The purpose of the device is to keep an aggressive animal at a safe distance while the person gets to safety. It is not to be used to hit or harm the animal (unless there is no other alternative to prevent serious human injury). This is due to the pain and distress that can be caused if bite sticks are improperly used.
There is potential for extendable bite sticks to fall within the definition of an offensive weapon under the Crimes Act 1961.
