Owning a pet brings joy, companionship, and love, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring their well-being and freedom. In Auckland, pet owners must ensure their furry, feathered, or scaly friends live their best lives by following the principles of responsible pet ownership.
Registration and Microchipping:
Dogs must be registered by the age of three months according to the New Zealand Dog Control Act 1996.
Registration helps reunite lost dogs with their owners and helps manage animals that may pose a threat to safety.
Puppies must be microchipped by a veterinarian within two months after registration, which increases their safety.
Responsible Reproduction:
Understanding the importance of controlling unwanted pet reproduction helps prevent overcrowded shelters and reduces the number of stray animals. Instead of castration, which limits the freedom of animals, owners should consider alternatives, such as responsible breeding control, while supporting love and care that allow animals to live harmoniously in the world.
Physical Activity and Public Spaces:
Regular exercise is crucial for a dog's health and well-being. Owners should ensure their pets spend time in public spaces, following the rules, and on a leash when necessary, in designated areas.
Providing a Healthy Environment for Pets:
Animals, like humans, need care, attention, and love. Ensure they have access to fresh water, food, physical activity, and toys that promote their emotional development and active play.
Wildlife Protection:
Never release pets into the wild, as they can threaten local species and ecosystems. If you can no longer care for a pet, find responsible ways to rehabilitate and rehome them.
Cat Ownership:
Cats, being natural predators, can pose a threat to local wildlife. Using collars with bells and creating safe enclosures allows cats to enjoy outdoor time while reducing risks to the ecosystem.
Responsible Dog Owner License:
The Auckland Council offers a responsible dog ownership test and license, encouraging proper care and attention to pets, and offering reduced registration fees for those who pass the test.