CBD a "no-go" for dogs

MANAWATU District Council is reminding dog owners that Feilding’s CBD is a “no-go” zone after a noticeable increase in canine activity in the area.

Animal Control Officer, Herb Verstegen, said it appeared that owners had become a little lax about the rule or were unsure as to where they could walk, or not walk, their dog.

“It seems some people automatically assume that because Feilding is a rural town they can exercise their dog wherever they like,” he said. “But that is not so.”

Dogs were banned from the CBD in 2004 under a Manawatu District Council bylaw, which also lists the areas where the animals are permitted or prohibited. Seeing-eye and disability assistance dogs are exempt.

Mr Verstegen said council wanted to raise owners’ awareness to the ban that had been introduced because of hygiene and safety reasons.

“The problem is not a major, but it has crept under the radar, and we want to remind people of their responsibilities when out in town with the dog.”

New “No Dogs” signs are to be erected at strategic entrances to the town centre as replacements for previous damaged or missing notices.

He said dog behaviour in the town and wider Manawatu District was generally “pretty good”, though there were still instances of gates or doors not being shut and dogs escaping.

“And with the school holidays coming up, we do request parents to ensure children keep their properties secure and prevent the dog running off.”


Dogs are prohibited from the following places in Feilding

• Manchester Street, from Hobson Street to the Feilding saleyards

• Stafford Street, Goodbehere Street and Macarthur Street

• Fergusson Street, from Aorangi Street to Warwick Street

• Manchester Square, including its gardens

• Kimbolton Road, from Aorangi Street to Warwick Street

• The whole of Kowhai Park

• Victoria Park playing fields

• Vista Drive children’s playground

• Fergusson Street children’s playground

• Timona Park - children’s playground and playing fields

• Manfeild Park skateboard area and playground

• The whole of Makino Park

• Playing fields at Johnston Park and Rimu Park