Dog control policy to be discussed

Published on 27 November 2014

27 November 2014

The Wanganui District Council will discuss the proposed Dog Control Policy 2015 at its meeting on Tuesday, December 2, with an opportunity for the community to have its say before the policy is finalised.

The proposed policy aims to improve community safety by requiring dogs to be on a leash at all times in public areas, allowing a maximum of three dogs per household in urban areas and enforcing tougher infringements on dog owners who don’t comply with regulations.

Deputy Strategy and Development Manager Jonathan Barrett said the public had already indicated support for tougher dog restrictions in an online survey in September and he expects there will be lots of community interest in the proposed policy.

“The survey was filled out by 123 people who told us roaming dogs are the biggest problem they saw, followed by the number of unwanted dogs and puppies and then dog attacks. We are really pleased so many people took the time to give their feedback and we hope people will have their say on the proposed policy.”

If the Council approves the proposed policy, it will be open for public consultation from mid-December until mid-February.

In the meantime, Mr Barrett reminds dog owners that it is their responsibility to keep their dog under control at all times, preferably on a leash.

“Wandering dogs can be intimidating to the general public and a hazard to road users. We encourage dog owners to make sure their pets cannot escape from their property and to put them on a leash when they are in public areas.

“No matter how friendly your pet is, you need to make sure it does not rush up to greet a stranger. When your dog is on a leash, the person holding the leash must be strong enough to restrain the dog and owners must be able to see their dogs at all times, as well as use commands to control them.

“We really want to see a dog-friendly community where dogs and owners share their space safely and some simple actions, such as leashing your dog, can help achieve this.”