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Support for De-sexing Dangerous Dogs in the District

March 28, 2017

Desexing Ad

Note: This Public Notice is out of date, and is retained for archival purposes only.

Manawatu and Rangitikei District Councils have obtained government funding for a programme offering free de-sexing to new or unregistered dogs in the district that would normally fall under the classification of “menacing or dangerous” breeds or type listed in the 4th Schedule of the Dog Control Act 1996.

These include breeds of dog such as Brazilian Fila, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa and the Perro de Presa Canario and types of dog such as the American Pit Bull Terrier.

This programme will also include a reduced cost towards microchipping of new dogs to the district register.

Funding has been provided in part by central government as part of the national strategy to reduce the risk and harm of dog attacks.

The Department of Internal Affairs’ contribution is designed to reduce the number of menacing or dangerous dogs by restricting unwanted breeding and decreasing aggressive behaviour.

MDC and RDC will be working in partnership with SRVS Vet Services and Totally Vets on the project.

Senior Animal Control Officer Robert Peterson says both Councils’ Dog Control Bylaw requires all dog’s classified as menacing or dangerous to be de-sexed.

“This programme provides all new or unregistered dog owners with an opportunity to have this done for free.”

Currently both Councils enforce the neutering of any dog classified as menacing or dangerous and want to support those owners who may have dogs that qualify but have not been registered due to the costs involved in de-sexing.

For owners interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, please contact either Manawatu or Rangitikei District Council and provide them with your details.

Following this, you will be contacted by an Animal Control Officer who will confirm your eligibility, explain the process to you and help book an appointment for your dog, assisting you through the whole process.

“This free programme gives owners the incentive to act responsibly. It’s a win-win for owners and our community.”

The programme runs from 24 March – 30 June 2017.