Dog rules likely to be revised in Waipā

The number of dogs allowed on properties in Waipā, along with registration fees, neutering and other canine issues will likely be part of Waipā District Council’s revised Dog Control Policy.

Council’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee agreed a formal review of the Waipā Dog Control Policy and Bylaw will be undertaken later this year.

The revised policy and bylaw will set the rule for managing dogs in the district, and community feedback received last year as part of an early engagement process is to play a key role in drafting it.

The policy will cover issues like the number of dogs allowed on town properties, rules and safety measures to control nuisance dogs, where they can be exercised, rules for keeping dogs on leashes, prohibited areas, registration fees, dog welfare, neutering and fencing.

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Council’s group manager district growth and regulatory Wayne Allan said they received 300 pieces of feedback last year, followed up with a webinar to provide more information.

Allan said staff already had very clear feedback about dogs from community engagement.

“All of this will be taken into account when drafting a proposed policy and bylaw, he said.

“But there will be no decisions made until after the community has had its say during the formal public consultation process in April – May.

“People feel strongly, so we look forward to people getting involved and hearing from dog owners and non-dog owners alike.”

Public consultation of the draft policy and bylaw is likely to open in mid-April to mid-May.