Dog pound options being investigated

Published on 14 February 2014

14 February 2014

Mayor Annette Main today said the Wanganui District Council will receive a report on various options for its dog pound when it meets on March 10.

“I understand that the method we have been using for many years, while not regarded as inhumane by experts, is increasingly seen as unacceptable by many people. The level of public concern needs to be acknowledged and Council has welcomed the opportunity to talk to groups concerned.

“Our staff are currently working with vets, animal welfare organisations and others to investigate options for the future operation of the pound.

“Those options, including the cost implications, will be considered by the Council before any permanent changes are made.

“In the meantime, staff are working to ensure the alternative we can put in place can be achieved with the goodwill of local vets and animal welfare organisation HUHA. We will avoid using the euthanising chamber and if any urgent euthanisation is required over this weekend, it will be done by the vets.

“I do want to remind our community that this situation could largely be avoided if unwanted dogs were given to the SPCA or taken to the vet, instead of being abandoned and the cost left for the ratepayers and responsible dog owners to pay for. I know our staff who have to carry out the unpleasant task of euthanising unwanted animals would prefer not to have to do this.”