[chelseauk]

Hi,

I'm looking at moving over to NZ, But in the course of a discussion with someone who is native to NZ they said ....

"I note that you have 3 dogs.I dont want to worry you but you should be aware that a lot of local bodies are bringing in regulations restricting any residential property to having a maximum of 2 dogs. Rural or semi rural properties don't have that problem. "

Does anyone have any further information ???

Mike.

[veronica]

its not so much as to restrict the number of dogs as to make sure the property is suitable for them. You have to register the property with the local council if you have 2 or more dogs. This cost $65, plus each dog (whether you own 1 or more) has to be licenced, the total for us with the two dogs was about the $150, the dogs have to be licenced each year but the property only once. If you get the dog licences in before I think it is April, it is cheaper. I can see the political correctness in what they are trying to achieve and agree with it to a certain extent but they are trying to cut down on irresponsible dog owners who allow the dogs to just roam the streets. The trouble with it being that the resposible dog owners are the ones that register.

[blue]

Check out the local council website for where you are heading and there will be loads of info on there about it all. I also have 3 dogs, I think they are looking on it for the welfare of the dogs and that the garden is a sensible size and secure for them.

[Diny]

This seems like a very sensible idea - one that will benefit both man and beast.

Too many dogs are locked up all day either inside or in a garden which is just too small for them. This can result in the said animals yapping all day and trying to 'escape'. Basically it's cruel and the owners need to be brought to task.

Also - I confess to being a non-lover of the canine critters - this rule would be great for those amongst us who don't want 'mans best friend' running free around our neighbourhoods and messing the pavements etc.

Like I said before, a very good rule for all people and dogs concerned - it can only have beneficial results.

Diny

[blue]

Well said Diny and also dogs that have the correct care are happier. I have just brought a new dog flap ready to take with me! It came with a spare flap which I fixed back on to the dog flap I have here which pleased me as the other one kept coming off.

[Bubbles]

while I agree with the registration of pets, ie:dogs. I was just wondering if NZ plan to implement the same ruling for cats !
As we all know, a certain percentage of cat owners tend to kick their so called pets out before going to work and give them free reign until they return. meanwhile, the so-called pets have cr***ed and pi**ed in the neighbours prize flower or vegetable bed causing much damage and stress. As Veronica said

" The trouble with it being that the responsible owners are the ones that register ".

Yes, you've probably guessed I'm not a cat lover. It's not the animals fault, believe it or not, it's in their nature, even if they are domesticated animals, it's the owners who should take responsibility.

[Diny]

Well said bubbles. Cat's need to be covered by the same ruling.

It's not that I'm a 'pet hater' - I think my opinions are bourne from the fact that I'm a farmers daughter and have had animals that are kept in a field for profit. All the animals we've ever owned were registered, any relocating was tracked and registered with the necessary authorities and they were never a problem to the general public.

I know there's a huge difference between a tabby moggie and a half tonne Holstein - but I'm just letting you know where my opinions come from.

Guess old habits are hard to kick .... I just don't get the idea of animals as pets..... especially indoors.

Guess all the pet lovers will want me strung up now :( . I totally respect your choices ..... honestly I do :nice1

I'm outa here before you set the dogs on me.

Diny

[blue]

Hi diny I just had a word with Red, Bessie and Paddy, Paddys very shocked at the moment he thought he had some new admirers and the hounds have promised not to try and jump up at you an kiss you again!