Many dog owners may not realise the importance of registering their dogs. Under the Dog Control Act 1996, all dogs over three months of age are required by law to be registered with their local Council. But why do we do this?
Firstly, dog registration plays a vital role in funding services designed to protect both the dogs and the community at large. The fees collected from dog registrations help fund the enforcement of the Dog Control Bylaw. These are rules designed to keep the community and dogs safe.
Council have trained staff who actively monitor dog behaviour and address any complaints, including incidents of barking, wandering and menacing dogs. Council’s approach is to focus on education first, and enforcement if necessary.
When you register your dog, you contribute to proactive community safety initiatives. These include patrolling public spaces, parks, and walking trails, ensuring that all dogs are kept in check and any potential issues are addressed before they escalate.
Additionally, your registration fees support educational programmes that inform both dog owners and the public about responsible pet ownership and safety.
In the case your dog goes missing or becomes lost, the registration process aids in reuniting you with your pet through effective identification systems.
Registering your dog is not just a legal requirement, it’s a commitment to community safety and responsible pet ownership
that benefits everyone. So, if you have a furry friend at home, make sure they are registered and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it.
For more information, and to register your dog, go to waimatedc.govt.nz/dogs
