Domestic Animal Services has confirmed it is holding three dogs in relation to an attack on two pups in their own backyard.
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The owner of the three dogs has on social media denied his animals are responsible for the attacks but refused to comment any further.
The two pups, Lucky and Lady, are continuing to recover after being mauled in their backyard at Wanniassa on Saturday.
A neighbour says they saw three dogs attack the pups who had to escape through a dog flap into the laundry where they were found bleeding and cowering in fear.
A City Services spokesperson confirmed an investigation was underway.
"All three dogs were picked up by Domestic Animal Services (DAS) on Saturday 5 August, 2017, in response to a complaint of roaming dogs," a statement read.
"The owner of the dogs was located and given a warning in relation to the dogs being in a public place without a carer. The dogs were then returned to their owner by DAS under normal practices
"A second complaint was received by DAS the following day alleging the dogs had been involved in an attack incident the previous day.
"The dogs were subsequently seized by DAS while the attack allegation is being investigated.
"The alleged attack occurred in Wanniassa.
"As the attack allegation is part of an ongoing investigation, unfortunately TCCS cannot provide further comment at this time other than to acknowledge that dog attacks can be traumatic and distressing for all involved."
There has been some conjecture about whether the owner of the dogs allegedly involved in the attacks initially accepted responsibility and paid $1000 towards the vet bills. It's understood the owner denies the responsibility and has asked for the return of the $1000.
The owner of Lady and Lucky, Vanessa Giannasca, meanwhile has expressed her thanks to the public, with a gofundme page set up to help pay for a $5000 vet bill.
One woman donated $1000, with the total on Friday close to $3300.
"We are so grateful, you have no idea," Ms Giannasca said.
"I sent a message to the lady who gave the $1000 and asked if I could thank her face-to-face because we can't even express our gratitude."
Ms Giannasca also told The Canberra Times she initially rang the police about the attack on Saturday and was told to contact Access Canberra.
She rang Access Canberra and was told there was nothing that could be done because Domestic Animal Services was closed on the weekend, which was incorrect. Ms Giannasca said she then contacted DAS on Monday and an officer came to the house to start the investigation.
City Services is investigating that element of the case as well.
"DAS has a 24-hour/seven day week operation for the community to report dog attacks via Access Canberra on 13 22 81.," the spokesperson said.
"Dog attacks are the highest priorities for response by DAS Rangers. If an attack is in progress, the community is urged to contact ACT Policing on Emergency 000.
"If any members of the public have information that may assist the investigation, please email dogcontrol@act.gov.au or contact Access Canberra on 13 22 81."
