Public Help Sought In Catching Rogue Dogs

Residents of Raetihi and the surrounding farming area are being asked to report any roaming dogs they see to Ruapehu District Council (RDC) compliance staff.

RDC Compliance Team Leader, Brenda Ralph, said that over the last six months Raetihi has been plagued by a series of dog attacks on sheep.

“Council has been called out to a number of horrific attacks where sheep have been killed or have needed to be put down due to the injuries they have sustained,” she said.

“Although happily things seem to have calmed down for now experience tells us that this won’t last and people should be vigilant for any dogs on the loose.”

“Council would like to make a plea to residents to advise us of any roaming dogs they see, or if their stock has suffered from an attack, even if they didn’t see the dogs involved.”

Mrs Ralph said that once dogs start this behaviour they will keep doing it until they are caught.

“When exercising their dog people should ensure that it is always under control.”

“It is also important to ensure that your dog is secure at night and cannot roam as this is often when these attacks occur,” she said.

“Many people can’t believe that their beloved family pet that ‘wouldn’t hurt a fly’ would be involved in an attack on sheep.”

“Unfortunately when dogs get together in a pack their ‘hard wired’ hunter instincts are dominant.”

Mrs Ralph added that all calls are treated confidentially.

“Anyone calling council with information can remain anonymous if they wish,” she said.

“Council will investigate all reported attacks; however, information from the public is usually always they key to catching the dogs involved in these types of incidents.”

ENDS

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