Media Release: Waikato District Council, 13 April 2015
New dog rules hit the pavement soon
We’re a district of animal lovers, with 13,615 dogs registered across our district. At times these dogs and other animals can cause problems, last month our Animal Control team responded to 255 calls.
To allow people to enjoy the benefits of owning a dog while minimising potential danger and nuisance to the community, we have a Dog Control Policy and Bylaw which is enforced by our Animal Control Officers.
Earlier this year we spoke to the community about the draft Policy and Bylaw. We received 221 submissions that were both in support of and against various aspects of the policy and bylaw. The main discussion was whether dogs should be prohibited from the main streets of our towns.
After hearing from members of the community, Council decided at a meeting today, to allow dogs on the main streets of Raglan, Te Kauwhata and Tuakau, as long as they are on a lead and are not left unattended or tethered.
Sue Duignan, General Manager Customer Support said “we understand the need to briefly leave your dog tied up while you pop into the shop and pay for your coffee but dogs are not allowed to be left unattended on the main streets for more than a few minutes.
Removing this rule was the result of a lot of community interest and we hope dog owners can continue to be responsible and respectful of everyone enjoying the main streets of these towns.”
Dogs are still prohibited on the main streets of Huntly and Ngaruawahaia where the communities appear to be happy with the status quo.
“We received a number of requests from the Raglan, Te Kauwhata and Tuakau communities asking for the ban to be removed. However, there were no requests from the Huntly and Ngaruawahia communities” explained Sue Duignan.
As part of this process, Council has also made a commitment to review signage throughout the district to ensure areas where dogs are prohibited, leash only areas and dog exercise areas are clearly marked. The rule of thumb still applies though – if you’re unsure, keep your dog on a leash.
The new Dog Control Policy and Bylaw 2015 will come into effect from 1 May 2015.