Across our nation, a disturbing number of councils have been involved in unjust practices towards dogs, including inappropriate seizure, substandard pound conditions, and the unwarranted destruction of these beloved dogs. This situation cannot continue.

For far too long, these voiceless family pets have been subjected to unfair treatment, while their families face undue pressure to comply, often in situations where a dog's actions are justifiable or when no substantial evidence has been presented. It's time to demand change and ensure that our beloved dogs receive the compassionate treatment they deserve. Join us in calling for a comprehensive review and reform of council policies regarding dog management, to protect these loyal companions and uphold the rights of their caring families.

The unchecked authority granted to councils under Section 57 of the Dog Control Act in New Zealand has led to a grave situation. This section gives councils the authority to independently determine the fate of dogs, often leading to decisions about destruction without appropriate oversight. The misuse of Section 57 has reached alarming levels. What is concerning is many of those entrusted with making these life-or-death decisions lack certified expertise in animal behaviour and possess minimal, if any, prior experience with animals. This lack in qualifications and expertise raises serious questions about the appropriateness of their rulings, which can end in tragic outcomes for pets and their families. It's crucial to address this issue and ensure that such critical decisions are made by qualified individuals who understand animal behaviour and welfare. We call for immediate reforms to this system, advocating for more rigorous standards and oversight in the decision-making process to prevent unnecessary and unjust harm to these animals.

By signing this petition you are agreeing that is is time some serious changes were made to Section 57 of the Dog Control Act that will give dogs a second chance and Breed Specific Legislations are removed.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for important improvements in dog pounds:

1. Ensure regular exercise for all dogs. If pound staff are not trained for this, external professionals should be hired.

2. Limit the time a dog can be caged to a maximum of 3 weeks while awaiting a court case. Options like temporary bail or transfer to a willing rescue organisation should be provided.

3. Dogs should be removed from their cages during cleaning to ensure their safety and comfort.

4. Replace hard, plastic surfaces with soft, elevated bedding for better comfort.

5. Extend public visiting hours at pounds beyond the current 2 hours per day.

6. Provide access to green spaces where all dogs can play and exercise. Pounds must have grassy areas for this purpose.

7. Permit owners to provide special dietary food for their dogs, if necessary.

8. Employ specialised dog trainers at every pound to foster good behaviour and provide mental stimulation for the dogs.

9. Prohibit the use of bolt guns for euthanising dogs.

10. Allow owners to visit their dogs awaiting court decisions, a practice currently banned in most New Zealand pounds.

11. Require pound staff to undergo dog training courses or possess relevant qualifications to ensure competent care of the animals.