As summer rolls into Wairoa dog owners are being reminded to prepare for the warmer weather and holidays breaks.

Wairoa District Council interim chief executive Kitea Tipuna encourages animal and pet owners to make their plans and preparations early.

“If you are planning on spending time away from home, whether you usually live in town or on a farm, please ensure you have a responsible person taking care of your animals.

“As the days get warmer animals need more water and protection from the heat.

“Summertime brings a raft of animal issues such as dogs being out and about more, left in vehicles and more dog barking.

“We see an increase in barking dogs during the hotter months through to Christmas with more barking complaints made to Council due to dogs being left on the chain, tangled up, in the heat or left for long periods of time.

“It is important dog owners act responsibly.

“The extended Labour weekend holiday is less than a fortnight away, and dog owners especially, should be making plans to have their pets looked after, or if they are leaving home that they abide by the rules if they are taking their dogs with them.

“For the last couple of years the Mahia population has increased by thousands of people over the long Labour weekend.

“It is important dog owners have their dogs on a lead and clean up after them.

“This is about safeguarding the animals and the animal owners.”

Mr Tipuna also reminded all dog owners that the deadline for dog registrations has now passed.

“All dogs in Wairoa should now be registered. Staff will be visiting properties to ensure all dogs are registered and there will be consequences for owners who have not registered their dogs.”

13 October 2020

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