Swifter Response Sought for Dog Problems

Serious dog issues in the district are likely to be resolved more quickly in the future, following a recommendation by the Policy Committee tonight (Tuesday).


The recommendation is for two managers at the council to have the delegated authority to authorise court proceedings for the more serious offences committed under the Dog Control Act.

These powers are currently held by the elected council, which meets every six weeks.

“If this recommendation is approved by the full council at its next meeting, the delegated managers will be able to respond to these serious incidents shortly after they occur,” says Manager Customer and Regulatory Services Martin White.

“We handle most offences under the Act with an infringement notice, but there are times when court proceedings are necessary – such as when a dog has attacked a person or animal.

“Court action is not taken lightly and is always the action of last resort, when all other options and negotiations with dog owners have been exhausted.

“But by being able to take any necessary court action soon after an incident, we’ll be able to get a resolution for the dog owner and any victims a lot sooner.”

The council will consider the Policy Committee’s recommendation at its meeting on 18 December.

The council generally houses at the dog pound any dogs that are at the centre of a court case.

By being able to start court proceedings earlier, space at the dog pound would be freed up and there would be less costs incurred for food and housing. The pound would also be a safer environment for staff and any members of the public visiting the facility to adopt a dog.