To: The Council and relevant regulatory authorities

We, the undersigned, request urgent transparency and review regarding the continued impoundment of two dogs currently held in Council custody for approximately two years.

Background and context

These two dogs have been detained by the Council for an extended period of around two years. During this time, there has been limited clear communication provided to interested parties regarding their ongoing detention, condition, or the specific legal and factual basis for their continued impoundment.

Requests for information have been made under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA). However, full disclosure of records, decisions, and reasoning has not been provided in a way that clearly explains or justifies the continued deprivation of ownership and care arrangements.

As a result, there is growing concern within the community regarding transparency, procedural fairness, and whether all statutory obligations under the Dog Control Act 1996 and related legislation have been properly applied and reviewed over time.

Concerns being raised

This petition does not seek to undermine public safety or responsible animal control practices. Rather, it raises legitimate questions about:

👉🏽 The legal basis for prolonged detention of the animals

👉🏽 Whether ongoing impoundment remains necessary or proportionate

👉🏽 Whether all statutory requirements for review, notice, and decision-making have been properly followed

👉🏽 Whether affected parties have been given fair and timely access to relevant information

👉🏽 Whether the principles of natural justice and administrative fairness have been upheld

What we are asking for

We respectfully request that the Council:

✅ Provide full disclosure of all records, reports, and decisions relating to the impoundment of these two dogs;

✅ Clearly identify the legal grounds under which continued detention is being maintained;

✅ Confirm whether any formal reviews have been undertaken regarding the length of impoundment;

✅ Release any information that can lawfully be provided under LGOIMA, with clear reasons for any withholding decisions;

✅ Conduct a formal review of whether continued impoundment remains justified under current law and policy.

Closing statement

Public authorities are entrusted with significant powers, including the ability to detain animals. With that responsibility comes an equal obligation to act transparently, fairly, and in accordance with the law.

This petition seeks accountability, clarity, and a fair review of a prolonged situation that has now extended well beyond standard expectations.

📢 We call for openness, proper process, and resolution in the interests of all parties involved.