Auckland to crack down on dangerous dogs

(File)
(File)

Auckland Council has announced a widespread campaign to deal with dangerous dogs especially American pit bulls.

If you're an Aucklander with a menacing dog, the message is clear. Get it registered or it will end up here.

"Animal management will be coming for you. Time has changed," says chair of the Regulatory and Bylaws Committee councillor Calum Penrose.

A dog can be classed as menacing by breed or by deed, but as Auckland Council's efforts to ensure registration will be particularly focused on American Pitbull terriers.

"We have labradors that are classified as menacing so it is broad but unfortunately statistics show that American pit bull terriers or their crosses are figuring far too highly," says Auckland Council's Animal Management Manager Geoff Keber.

In Auckland they are 20 times more likely than any other breed to be involved in serious attacks. Animal Management's focusing on South Auckland where it happens the most.

The Council plans a 10 week amnesty for owners -- starting now.

The $300 fine for failing to register the dogs will be waived.

First year's registration will also be free, with a nominal $25 charge for de-sexing, microchipping, and a muzzle.

But after July, unregistered menacing dogs will be seized and the owner fined.

"It's been proved around the world that banning breeds doesn't work. It just moves from one breed to another. It's about that responsible ownership," says Auckland SPCA chief executive Andrea Midgen.

MP for Papakura, Judith Collins says some people are simply unfit to own dogs.

"If I look at some of the people who have these menacing dogs, they also don't look after their children, they don't look after themselves, they don't look after anything -- and actually, why would we seriously expect them to become responsible dog owners?"

But dog trainer Jade Alexander believes education is key.

 "Especially in schools, I think it's really important for education on dog safety to be taught in schools -- but it needs to be regulated. I've spoken to a lot of people who are getting mixed messages," says dog trainer and educator Jade Alexander.

Those unsure whether their dogs are menacing or not can contact the council for a decision.

If the animal's been rehomed by a shelter or pound, it will already have been assessed.

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