Auckland Council is encouraging owners of menacing dogs to de-sex their animals and offers a subsidy for some.
The subsidy applies to registered menacing dogs (by breed) and is subject to conditions Animal Management team's Kerri Fergusson says.
“Promotion on de-sexing high-risk dogs and offering a subsidy to owners will help continue the effort to reduce harm in our communities,” she says.
The subsidy varies, depending on whether owners hold a Responsible Dog Owners Licence, Community Services or Gold Card.
“Behaviour improves as dogs are less likely to wander, roam or stray. Therefore, they are less likely to be hurt in road accidents or get into fights with other dogs,” she says.
“Dogs are also less likely to be aggressive and can be easier to train. It does not change the personality of your dog.”
Auckland Council requires all dogs classified as menacing to be neutered as per the Dog Control Act 1996.
As at February 2020, the Auckland region has a total of 4466 dogs that were classified as menacing. A total of 3742 are classified due to breed and 724 are classified due to deed (behaviour).
De-sexing also lowers your dog’s annual registration fee with the council.
While it is recommended dogs are de-sexed at around six months of age, it depends on the dog.
“Here at the council we won’t de-sex any dog younger than three months, sometimes older if the size and/or health is an issue.”
A trained veterinarian makes the final call and signs off on whether a dog can be de-sexed.
Kerri says de-sexing helps control the overpopulation of dogs.
“It eliminates the reproductive drive in dogs and reduces the number of unwanted puppies,” she says.
To find out more information visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
