Dog registration payments due soon

Dog registrations are due by Friday 31 July and anyone concerned that they may struggle to pay their fees are encouraged to contact Horowhenua District Council now to discuss payment options.

Customer and Regulatory Services Manager Mike Lepper says that Council does not want to have to add a 50 percent late payment penalty or any other infringement fee. He said they would rather talk with dog owners now and arrange a payment plan if necessary.

Registration renewal notices were posted to the last recorded address held on Council's records. Any dog owner who has not received their renewal notice should ensure Council has their current address and contact details.

Dog registration fees have increased by $10 per dog, as per Council’s April 2014 resolution to increase dog registration fees by $10 per fee in 2014/2015 and 2015/2016.

The increases have been necessary to cover the costs faced by the Council and so it can meet its obligations under the Dog Control Act. The fees cover about three-quarters of the cost to run the Animal Control department, with the balance covered by Council.

Dog registration fees range from $44 for a puppy to $265 for a dangerous-classified dog, with most fees between $55 and $112.

Mr Lepper says that Horowhenua's animal control fees and charges are still lower than those charged by most other councils in New Zealand.

Payments can be made at Council's office in Levin or at the Foxton or Shannon district libraries. Payments can also be made by direct credit, with details on how to do so can be found on the dog registration renewal notices.

Detailed information on dog registrations, as well as the schedule of fees and charges for animal control, is available online at www.horowhenua.govt.nz/AnimalControl

Council can be contacted on 06 366 0999 or enquiries@horowhenua.govt.nz

ENDS

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