Dog Time Again

Current dog owners can expect registration applications in the post by the end of June along with some reminders of doggy ‘do’s and don’ts.’

Increased compliance from Government means extra scrutiny of the registration process and one issue to emerge is that some people who sign the forms are not the owners.
Because the application is a legal document that can be used in a court of law only the owner may sign – not a spouse or partner. Whilst council staff can help if required, it would be appreciated if you have all the information available when bringing in the document.

Addresses are another issue. As the provision of a physical dog location is a requirement, the RAPID number, road name and rural delivery number should be included. Anyone that has moved house is asked to advise the council so that the database can be amended.

Records indicate some owners have been paying a rural fee instead of an urban fee. A rural rate is only applicable if the dog is a working dog or the property has at least one hectare of conjoining land. Owners who have not met the criteria have been moved to an urban fee.

And not forgetting the services that the council provides. These are an after hours service for Animal Control complaints along with random night patrols.