More dogs but fewer complaints
27 July 2015Dog numbers in the Waipa district are increasing, but the number of dog-related complaints has dropped.
In the 2014/15 year, there were 7,513 dogs registered in the district - up from 7,229 the previous year. During the year council staff dealt with 2145 dog-related complaints and more than 1800 general enquiries.
Complaints about wandering dogs rose slightly but complaints about barking dogs decreased. Most barking complaints received during the year were resolved quickly once owners were aware of the problem.
There were fewer general aggression complaints about dogs last year but a small increase in reported attacks. Council staff received 156 complaints about attacks, rushing or aggressive dogs.
The number of dangerous dogs in the district decreased from 11 to eight. Dangerous dogs exhibit aggressive behaviour and by law must be neutered, kept fenced and on a leash and muzzled in public.
There are also fewer menacing dogs registered in Waipa - down from 64 to 62. Waipa District Council's policy is that all menacing dogs must be neutered. Menacing dogs are classified based on their breed or type, not necessarily because of their behaviour.
Last year, 429 dogs were impounded in either the Kihikihi or Cambridge pound. Of those, 320 were claimed by owners who must pay an impounding fee, register their dog (if unregistered) and pay any micro-chip fees. Council put-down 58 dogs last year and rehomed nearly 50. Many dogs were cared for by council staff until new homes were found.
All media enquiries, contact Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of council) 027 5077 599