Dog shot in Taumarunui after bugging livestock

A dog assaulting stock has actually been shot by Ruapehu District Council animal control staff.

The council reacted to reports of 2 dogs assaulting livestock on the Golf Rd showgrounds in Taumarunui on Thursday night.

“On arrival, the officer found a white Kelpie-type dog and Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross chasing and biting at cattle,” executive supervisor regulative and client service Warrick Zander said.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross was shot with a single shot while the 2nd dog got away into a house.

“One of the cattle was seen to be bleeding from its left hind leg; however, the officer was not able to secure the stock to confirm the degree of the injury,” Zander said.

“This attack follows on from three others reported in the same area this year and on top of others around the Taumarunui area.

“Dog attacks on stock are highly upsetting for the owners, not to mention the financial impact.”

Zander said the occurrence highlighted the value of dog owners guaranteeing their animals were well-secured when not under their direct control.

The Dog Control Act needs dog owners to guarantee their dog is under control at all times.

Any dog discovered assaulting animals, poultry, other domestic animals or safeguarded wildlife can be taken or damaged, with owners dealing with a fine of as much as $3000.

In cases where there has actually been severe injury or death to an individual or safeguarded wildlife, the dog owner can deal with a fine of as much as $20,000 and 3 years’ jail time.

In this case, the shot dog was microchipped and the council would be talking with the owner about why their dog was not protected and able to bug stock.

“Shooting a dog is always the last resort for animal control officers; however, they will not hesitate to do so if the situation calls for it,” Zander said.

Anyone who knows on the white Kelpie-type dog associated with the attack is asked to call the council on (07) 895 8188.