We're introducing changes to dog registration to reduce costs, cut plastic waste and make the process easier for dog owners.
This year, we're rolling out a new, durable metal tag that is designed to last for the lifetime of the dog, says Rochelle Deane, Regulatory Services Manager – Customer Services. The new tags will replace the plastic tags that were previously issued every year.
“This means dog owners will only need to renew their dog registration annually, without receiving a new tag each year” says Deane.
We will also begin transitioning the registration process to a paperless registration system, encouraging dog owners to receive renewal notices via email. Under the Dog Control Act 1996, all dogs must be registered by three months of age and renewed annually.
“These changes will reduce plastic waste and make the registration process simpler for customers and staff, so it’s a win-win,” says Deane.
Once the initial set-up costs are recovered, we expect to save around $51,000 every year.
“By making these changes, we will see a significant cost saving over time. As well as the cost to get the plastic tags made each year, Council staff spend around 400 hours allocating and posting the tags out. We have more than 13,000 known dogs in the Waikato District so it was time-consuming doing this every year. Sending the renewal notices by email, where possible, will also result in significant savings in postage costs for Council.”
The new tags come in two different sizes to suit your dog, 25mm and 30mm (as worn by Kevin in our top image). The tags can be viewed at your nearest Waikato District Council office.
To make things easier for dog owners, council is also introducing Afterpay as a payment option for dog registration. This option means those who need to, can pay it off over time.
Although this option is not currently available online, all Council offices and Libraries can accept Afterpay payments for dog registrations.
Dog registration is due by 31 July and more information about these changes will be provided over the coming months.
Dog owners: Do we have your email address?
If you are a dog owner, you can update your details here.
