Taupo District Council is offering free neutering for menacing dogs as part of a new campaign.
Council recently received $15,000 of Department of Internal Affairs funding as part of a nationwide subsidised neutering programme for menacing dogs. The funding will allow council to offer free neutering for these dogs, as well as discounted registration and microchipping for menacing dogs not currently registered with council.
Dogs can be classed as menacing by council officers if they are seen or are reported to be posing a threat to people or wildlife. There are also five types of dogs automatically classed as menacing - the Brazilian fila, dogo Argentino, Japanese tosa, perro de presa canario and pit bulls.
Consents and regulatory manager Scott Devonport said the number of menacing dogs in the district was increasing, meaning extra monitoring and control was needed.
"This neutering campaign will help to reduce the number of menacing dogs in the community, which will in turn help to reduce the number of dog attacks and make the district safer. While most dog owners are responsible and their dogs are safe, we need to ensure we're protecting the community from dogs that have the potential to cause physical and emotional harm to dog attack victims."
All menacing dogs can be neutered at nominated vet clinics for free, and unregistered menacing dogs can also be registered and microchipped at the discounted rate of $35.
"Neutering menacing dogs will become compulsory in the future, so we're encouraging owners to take advantage of getting this done for free as neutering can cost up to $400," Mr Devonport said.
Menacing dog owners who wish to have their dog neutered, registered or microchipped should contact council on 0800 ASK TDC (0800 275 832) or visit a council office in Taupo, Turangi or Mangakino.
