RUAPEHU District Council Animal Control was forced to shoot a dog found harassing cattle on the Golf Rd show grounds in Taumarunui, last Thursday evening.
Customer services manager Warwick Zander said council staff responded to reports of two dogs attacking cattle, and upon arrival found a white kelpie-type dog and Staffordshire bull terrier cross chasing and biting cattle. The Staffordshire cross was shot dead with a single shot, while the second dog fled into a residential area.
Warwick said the incident highlighted the importance of dog owners ensuring that their animals are well secured when they are not under their direct control.
“This attack follows on from three others reported in the same area this year and on top of others around the Taumarunui area,” he added.
“Dog attacks on stock are highly upsetting for the owners, not to mention the financial impact.”
He said the Dog Control Act required dog owners to ensure that their dog was under control at all times.
Any dog found attacking livestock, poultry, other domestic animals or protected wildlife can be seized or destroyed with owners facing a fine up to $3000 for any damage caused by the attack.
In cases of serious injury or death (to either a person or protected wildlife), the dog owner could face a fine up to $20,000, and three years’ imprisonment.
“In this case, the shot dog was micro-chipped and the council will be talking with the owner about why their dog was not secured and able to harass stock.
“Shooting a dog is always a last resort for animal control officers, however, they will not hesitate to do so if the situation calls for it as in this case.”
Anyone with information on the white kelpie type dog involved in the attack was asked to call Council on 07 895 8188.
