Register dogs on time and save money

Dog owners can save at least 15 percent on registration fees by registering their dog before 1 July 2010.

In the next few weeks, Waikato District Council will be sending out renewal notices to owners of known dogs in the Waikato District, reminding them to register their dogs by 1 July 2010.

Registration renewal notices are sent out by Council as a courtesy, rather than a legal requirement, and will be sent to the dog owner’s last known address. If a dog owner has had a change of address they will need to notify Council in writing as soon as possible to receive a renewal notice.
“Dogs must be registered each year, as registration only lasts for a year, from 1 July to 30 June the following year,” Waikato District Council Animal Control Manager, Nicole Collins said today.

“All dogs must be registered from three months of age, and any dogs acquired throughout the year must be registered immediately when they come into a person’s possession,” she said.

Legally, a dog owner can include the parent or guardian of a person under 16 who owns the dog, and is a member of their household living with and dependent on them. Also if a person has a dog in their possession, they are considered to be the owner of the dog, unless they have it for less than 72 hours in order to prevent it causing injury, damage or distress, or to return it to its owner if it is lost.

Dog registration costs vary. Waikato District Council encourages responsible dog ownership by reducing registration fees for dog owners who meet certain criteria. Dog owners can find out their registration fee by contacting the Waikato District Council on 07 824 8633.

The Dog Control Act 1996 requires every dog owner to register their dog/s with their local Council. Failing to do so can result in seizure of the dog/s from private property; having to pay an infringement fee of $300; and/or prosecution.