MEDIA RELEASE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

SPCA Urges HNZ To Reconsider State Housing Dog Ban

The RNZSPCA has labelled Housing New Zealand plans to effectively ban dogs from state houses as an “overreaction”.

A new policy discourages dog ownership among HNZ tenants and could result in eviction for tenants who refuse to comply. It comes in the wake of 37 dog-related incidents reported between July 2011 and June 2012. 

“This seems like an overreaction to what is a minor problem with only 37 reported incidents out of an estimated 40,000 dogs,” says RNZSPCA CEO Ric Odom.

“Such a policy will cause real distress and suffering to the dogs and the owners who consider their pets as members of their family. The wholesale eviction of 40,000 dogs would be catastrophic for the dogs and the community”.

“We recognise some dogs might cause damage and misbehave if not controlled adequately but these problems could be addressed through a policy that promotes responsible dog ownership. HNZ could require all dogs living in HNZ housing to be desexed, micro-chipped, registered, and vaccinated. Such a policy would be supported by the SPCA “.

SPCA believe responsible pet ownership, far from being a social nuisance, is a symptom of a healthy society. Pets often become treasured family members and caring for their needs can promote social responsibility and provide important opportunities for social interaction and exercise.

“The SPCA urges HNZ to soften its stance and take a more compassionate approach towards addressing any concerns it has regarding dog ownership among its tenants.”

ENDS

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