Whakatāne District dog owners who register their pets before Friday, 31 July 2020 will go in the draw to win a range of fantastic prizes.

Organised in partnership with Nestlé New Zealand Limited, a kennel and run worth $850 and a range of dog food prizes are up for grabs. Manager Community Regulation Graeme Lewer says the incentive is in addition to receiving an early-bird discount on fees if registered before the cut-off date.

“It’s an effective way to recognise responsible dog owners who do the right thing,” he says. “All dogs over three months old are required by law to be registered. It’s in the owner’s best interest to register and microchip their dog, as it helps our team return any lost, stolen or wandering animals as soon as possible.”

Registration fees are used to fund dog-related services, such as dealing with dog attacks, barking and straying. It also allows the animal control team to provide safety education to local schools and community stakeholders such as district nurses and postal delivery agents.

Dog owners who have previously registered animals have been posted an invoice, which can be paid online or in person at the Whakatāne Civic Centre or Murupara Service Centre. Anyone who has acquired a dog that is not currently in the system is encouraged to contact the Council as soon as possible.

The prize draw will be held in August and the winners notified by phone.