Stray dogs and careless owners

Press, 23 May 1977, Page 16

Stray dogs and careless owners

Only the most inveterate hater of animals could object to the presence in the city of dogs which are properly cared for and controlled. But even the most ardent animal lover is likely to agree that neither city nor country is any place for strays. All dogs can spread disease among animals and people, worry or kill stock, foul pavements, scare children and disturb people by barking. Responsible dog owners ensure that their pets or working animals do not cause avoidable trouble or inconvenience to others. The inexcusable problems are caused by the dogs whose owners do not' take their responsibilities seriously. Interest in owning dogs is increasing and the nuisance and trouble caused by dogs which are not properly cared for or controlled appears to be increasing as well. The nuisance could, perhaps, be abated by changes in the various laws which require local authorities to adopt measures to control dogs. A campaigner from Whangarei believes the present legislation is not adequate and, in response to representations made by him and others, the Minister of Internal Affairs (Mr Highet) has agreed to set up a special committee to consider changes in the legislation.

Among the changes suggested are that dogs should be registered at birth and not at the age of three months and

that owners or properties should have to be licensed as well as individual dogs. A decision to own a dog should not be made lightly. It is a commonplace observation that, most appealing puppies grow up to be obstreperous dogs. If people were required to register before acquiring a dog and were given information on the responsibilities of dog owners and their liability under the law, many might think twice about dog ownership. The result would be fewer abandoned dogs and fewer careless dog owners, and it could only benefit the reputation of dog owners generally.

Local bodies already have considerable powers to control dogs and all that may be needed is for them to use these powers more effectively. Some local councils are already making special efforts to enforce the law. The appointment of more dog control officers would be needed in most places. The cost of this can quite fairly be placed on all owners although, in fairness, the traceable owners of dogs found straying should be made to pay more through punitive pound fees. Most local bodies could also exercise more vigorously their powers to use financial incentives to have dogs neutered This would lead to fewer unwanted dogs being born and fewer problems for dog owners managing those kept not for breeding but as pets.