Dogs  |  11h ago

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Dog owners are being reminded to take care of their furry friends and others while enjoying the outdoors over the summer months.

Christchurch City Council Acting Animal Services Manager Ivan Trethowen says people love getting out and about with their furry friends over the summer period, but it’s important that everyone sticks to the rules.

“This helps keep everyone safe, by protecting swimming and recreation areas that fill up when it is hot.”

The Summer Beach Prohibition Areas rules started on 1 November, with restrictions in place until the end of March.

Dogs are prohibited, unless they are on a short leash, from within 100 metres of the Surf Live Saving Club pavilions at Spencer Park, Waimairi, North and South New Brighton Beaches between 9am and 7pm. Dogs are not allowed at Akaroa Beach, Lyttelton Harbour Beach and foreshore areas between the same times.

Other restrictions are in place for New Brighton Beach, Sumner Beach and Taylor's Mistake Beach.

Mr Trethowen also asked dog owners to continue to familiarise themselves with the new rules around where they can take their pooches in the district that came into effect last month.

“The dog bylaw and policy underwent a significant overhaul, with some new rules introduced, some changed, some staying the same, and others relaxed. In some parts of New Zealand dogs must be leashed everywhere, apart from specific off-leash areas.

“Our rules are not that restrictive, but we do rely on pet owners knowing what they can and can’t do. Areas where owners can take their dogs, where they need to be leashed and where no dogs are allowed can all be found on the Council’s website.”

Mr Trethowen says dog owners are also invited to make use of the Christchurch City Animal Shelter’s free weekly microchipping service.

“This is a great service to help pet owners comply with national legislation requiring them to microchips their pooches. It’s a much better alternative than getting a fine and helps the whole community, although we do discourage unvaccinated dogs are discouraged from visiting because of the risk parvovirus brings.”

Free microchipping is for dogs registered and living in the Christchurch City Council area. People can pop to the shelter at 10 Metro Place, Bromley, on a Wednesday between 11am and midday without making a prior appointment.