Get those tails wagging and register your dog

Time’s nearly up to register Waipā woofers for their new bling, before late fees apply. Dog registration notices should have landed in mailboxes a fortnight ago, and Thursday, July 31, is your last chance to pay on time.

All dogs in the district over three months old must be registered each year. Registration helps the council reunite lost dogs with their owners, supports the animal control team, and keeps communities safe.

Whether your furry friend is a rowdy rottweiler or a couch-loving corgi, registering them by Thursday, July 31 will help you avoid late fees imposed by the Dog Control Act.

Compliance manager Karl Tutty said it’s been a busy year for the animal control team, with around 3400 enquiries and carrying out 900 fence checks, as well as caring for impounded dogs and helping unclaimed pooches find their fur-ever homes.

“Dog registration fees help our team continue this great work around our district, as well as maintain our facilities, dog exercise areas and agility equipment.”

Last year in Waipā, the top dog names included Bella, Charlie, Molly and Luna, with the lovable Labrador coming out on top as the most popular breed. With more than 9300 dogs across the district, that’s a lot of wagging tails counting on their humans to get them registered.

“So far this year, we have had 4746 dogs registered,” Tutty said. “So, there are still a lot of owners needing to register their dogs, and I encourage them to do so before penalties apply.”

In Waipā, the fee to register an urban-based dog costs $104, which can be reduced to $79 if their dog is neutered and their fence has been checked. Rural-based dogs are $61. If paid after Thursday, July 31, a 50 percent penalty fee will be added.

“We understand times are tough for some Waipā residents. If you need support with your dog registration fees, please contact our friendly admin staff as soon as possible so they can help with payment options,” Tutty added.

Animal owners are also being encouraged to check that their email address is correct on this year's notice, as registrations will be emailed from next year. If you need to update your details, get in touch at animaladmin@waipadc.govt.nz. If you don’t have an email, you will continue to get a postal notice.

“Our team are working hard to process everyone’s dog registration applications and updates as fast as possible – please expect it may take up to seven working days to process during this busy period.”

Don’t paws – register your pooches today at waipadc.govt.nz/dogregistration or call into one of the council offices in Te Awamutu or Cambridge.