Questions around why action wasn't taken sooner following a fatal dog attack in Northland. 

62-year-old Mihiata Te Rore was killed by three dogs on Tuesday as she visited a home in Kaihu, north of Dargaville.

Local MP Shane Jones says jail terms should be considered for owners of what he labels 'homicidal dogs'.

Animal behaviour expert Mark Vette told Ryan Bridge animal management were aware of the dogs, so it's a shame they didn't step in earlier. 

He says this clearly shows something was wrong, and that they were aware of the high-risk situation.

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