D.O.G. Is Back In Business!

D.O.G (Dog Owners Group) is back in action after a period in recess. Acting Chair Dr Cathy Casey says that a number of members have contacted her and want to become actively involved in the issue of off leash access for dogs in Auckland City’s parks.

As a result an AGM of the group has been called for 7pm Thursday 29 May at the Grey Lynn Community Centre.

Dr Casey says that there is an enormous amount to frustration and anger among law-abiding dog owners in Auckland.

“Like everyone, we are horrified at the attack on Carolina. But we feel that all dogs and their owners are bearing the brunt of the misdeeds of that one dog and its irresponsible owners and it’s just not fair. Since the attack, responsible dog owners have borne the brunt of the City Council’s “blitz”.

“Prior to the Carolina attack, responsible dog owners were welcome with their dogs off leash in most local parks. Since the blitz, dog owners have virtually been evicted. Now off-leash parks like Western Park are becoming overpopulated by owners and dogs from all over the city, looking for somewhere central where they can legally exercise and socialise their dogs off leash.

“The ten Community Boards are currently looking at the use of parks in their local areas and we need to ensure that the views of responsible dog owners are heard.”

Dr Casey says she is expecting a big turnout at the D.O.G. AGM. “D.O.G. evolved from a growing awareness amongst a group of dog owners that they needed to be better represented. It was the issue of off leash access to the Meola Reef Reserve that galvanised a group of owners to form D.O.G. At its peak it had a 200-member database. The current issue of dog off leash access to local parks is again highlighting the need for an authoritative group to advise and lobby local Community Boards and the City Councils on their dog control policies.

“It is time once again for responsible dog owners to take collective action. D.O.G. is back in business.”

Membership is D.O.G. is $5. Further information from: http://www.dogon.co.nz

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