The Queenstown Lakes District Council has adopted its new dog control bylaw which comes into force on Friday 7 July 2006.

The bylaw, which replaces the previous 1996 regulations, has been adopted in accordance with the Dog Control Amendment Act, and is based on the dog policy recently formulated by council.

CivicCorp policy planner Lisa Kissell said the bylaw reflects the views of the community following public submissions on the issue.

"It is the first time people have had the opportunity to make input on a dog policy for the district and their role has been vital in creating both the policy and the bylaw."

Ms Kissell says dog owners and people who do not have dogs made a number of submissions which have been taken into account in the final bylaw.

"We believe the bylaw will meet the needs of everyone, both those that own dogs and those that don't. While we want to be seen as a dog friendly district we also have to be very conscious of public health and safety. Through the whole process this has been an important consideration."

Significant features of the new bylaw include the micro chipping of dogs in line with national policy.

"This applies to newly registered dogs, dogs which have been impounded more than twice and menacing dogs such as the American Pit Bull terrier."

The number of places where dogs are prohibited in the district, particularly in the central areas of Queenstown, Arrowtown and Wanaka have been reduced, in line with the dog friendly approach being taken.

"We have also made a number of changes to where dogs can be exercised off a leash," said Ms Kissell. "This includes some council reserves and walking tracks. The submission process clearly indicated there was a lot of opposition to dogs being on leads in these areas."

"Obviously there are some areas where dogs do need to be restrained and people should make themselves aware of those places."

The council has also made a separate resolution in relation to search and rescue and avalanche dogs.

"Dogs in this category will be classified as working dogs which means they will attract the lesser working dog registration fee," said Ms Kissell. "The council considered this was appropriate in view of the key role these animals play in rescues in the district."
Infringements of the bylaw will attract an instant fine. The penalties for individual offences have been set nationally.

The new dog control by law can be viewed at the Queenstown Lakes District Council offices, CivicCorp offices or on the council website - www.qldc.govt.nz

ENDS

For further information please contact Lisa Kissell, CivicCorp (03) 450 0300.

By: Sarah