A Good Year for Every Good Boy and Good Girl

Published on 05 October 2022

The 2021/2022 annual dog report was presented at Council this week and it has been a good year for every good girl and good boy with 140 more dogs registered in the Waitaki District since the last reporting year (2020-2021).

The report also shows a decrease in complaints recorded (down 23%), infringement notices issued (down 9%), dog impounding’s (down 36%). Additionally, dog attacks reported decreased from 34 to 23 which is a record low for the last 5 years.

While we have seen many decreases, infringements issued for bylaw breaches increased from eight to eighteen reflecting increase in dogs being walked off leash in prohibited areas.

Tristan Hope, Senior Compliance Officer said, “It is fantastic to see so many owners getting out and about, exercising with their dogs however we need to remind dog owners in some areas, your dog must be on a lead. If you are enjoying an off-lead area, dogs still need to be under control of the owner. If you’re unsure of these areas, there are maps available on the Waitaki District Council website.”

Taking an education first approach, there were 437 visits to property of dog owners by Animal Control Officers. Usually these are in response to reports by and concerns raised by residents. Wandering dogs are the highest category of issues reported to Council with Officers advising on suitable fencing before following up if not adhered to voluntarily.

With 5694 dogs registered in the district, the greatest numbers are in the working dog and selected owner categories. Selected owner status is a way to acknowledge and reward responsible dog owners with a significantly reduced registration fee. While there has been an increase in probationary and disqualified owners, the report also shows an increase of 8% in selected dog ownership status in the Waitaki District.

Council also runs a successful rehoming programme. Tristan Hope said, “The team have a strong relationship with the SPCA, Police, vets, neighbouring Councils, not for profit groups and charitable organisations. This, along with the fantastic public engagement on social media when a dog is up for adoption helps the rehoming programme be rewarding for the dog, the new owner, and the Animal Control Officers here at Council.”

ENDS