FREE sterilisations offered NOW for menacing dogs!

A change to the Dog Control Act will require all menacing dogs, as categorised under the Act, to be neutered. This change is expected to be included into the legislation in the latter part of this year. Once this happens, all menacing dogs in New Zealand will be required to be neutered.

"South Waikato District Council has successfully secured funding from central government so that residents with menacing dogs can get their dog neutered at no cost to themselves," said Kerry Beckett, Council's Animal Control Manager, "But you must act now to have your menacing dog neutered for free.

"Once the legislation is formally enacted, people will need to pay for the sterilisation themselves."

There are six breeds of dogs classified as menacing in New Zealand. We only have three types in the South Waikato - American Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier types (crosses) and the Dogo Argentino.

"Council reminds residents that the Dog Control Act is central government legislation that we are required to enact," continued Mrs Beckett. "Our Council is communicating directly with registered owners of menacing dogs, but for those who own a menacing dog that is unregistered, we encourage you to contact Council to start the process of registering your dog so that you can apply for this free funding for sterilisation."

All sterilisations will be coordinated by Council's Animal Control Team working together with a local veterinary clinic.

"Sterilisations can cost up to $250," added Mrs Beckett. "You can get your menacing dog sterilised at no cost to yourself, but you must act now."

People are encouraged to contact Council on 07 885 0340 or 07 885 0774 and ask to speak to one of our Animal Control team members.

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