Dog OwnersTe hunga nāna te kurī

Information for Dog Owners

When you become a dog owner you sign up to a social contract with your community, friends and whānau to ensure you are looking after the welfare of your animal and safety of people. Your responsibilities are governed by the Dog Control Act and Animal Welfare Act 1999 and Animal Welfare Regulations 2018.

Microchipping Your Dog

We identify and return more dogs because of their microchips than any other reason. Dogs that are microchipped are saved to a National Dog Database - meaning that no matter where in the country they are when lost, they can be reunited with you.

All dogs are legally required to be microchipped. Our Animal Services team can microchip your dog for about half the cost as it would to go through the vet. If you are interested, please get in touch to arrange an appointment.

Carry a Leash

Even when exercising your dog in an off leash area or Dog Exercise Area you are required to carry a leash with you. Dogs must be walked on lead in urban areas - no matter how well behaved, others may feel intimidated by a dog off-lead. Be courteous to your fellow community members by walking your dog on lead.

Dog Tags

Every dog must wear the registration tag provided at registration time. Replacement tags are provided at a cost; proof of registration must be provided.

Control of Dog on Dog Owner's Property

Dog owners are required to keep their dogs under adequate control on their own property. Your dog must be confined in a manner so that the dog cannot freely leave the property.

De-sexing your dog - A humane responsibility

De-sexing your dog will help reduce your dog's urge to roam around the neighbourhood, prevent the possibility of unwanted litters, and can improve the health of your dog. Your local vets are often very helpful and will allow you to pay off the cost of de-sexing.

Where can I take my dog off - lead?

The stop-banks and river areas of the Tuki Tuki and Waipawa Rivers adjacent to the Towns of Waipukurau and Waipawa are areas where you can exercise your dogs off leash. The owner or responsible person of a dog shall ensure that the dog is under effective control at all times within a dog exercise area.

Read our Dog Control Bylaw here