27 February 2024
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Animal abuse
Enquiry
I'm writing a story on a couple of Rotorua residents who have witnessed animal abuse by a man in Rotorua streets during the last couple of weeks. Could you please answer the following questions?
One witness said: “It was only a little puppy and he kept on dragging it [on the concrete] and then he constantly was kicking it".
Were there any dog patrol incident reports logged on these dates/times?
- Sunday 18th February 2024 - Old Taupo Road and/or Clayton Street Rotorua. Time unknown.
- Tuesday 20th February 2024 - Lake Road Rotorua about 1pm.
Can you please answer the following questions?
- What is RLC dog control process for animal abuse in the region?
- When would an animal/dog be prosecuted from its owner? How much evidence does the RLC require to do this?
What is RLC response to the above incident involving a man abusing the puppy?
Response
From Rotorua Lakes Council Group Manager Community and District Development – Jean-Paul Gaston:
Were there any dog patrol incident reports logged on these dates/times?
- Sunday 18th February 2024 - Old Taupo Road and/or Clayton Street Rotorua. Time unknown.
- Tuesday 20th February 2024 - Lake Road Rotorua about 1pm.
No incidents or reports came through to Rotorua Lakes Council from the areas and dates you specified.
Can you please answer the following questions?
- What is RLC dog control process for animal abuse in the region?
This question should be put to the SPCA as they deal with animal welfare and cruelty.
- When would an animal/dog be prosecuted from its owner? How much evidence does the RLC require to do this?
As above
- What is RLC response to the above incident involving a man abusing the puppy?
Although no notification was reported directly to Rotorua Lakes Council I can confirm Animal Control were alerted to the incident by the SPCA on Tuesday 20 February and supported them with extra patrols and visibility in the area.
With dog ownership comes big responsibilities. All dogs, especially puppies, need nutritious food, shelter, a well-fenced section and plenty of love and attention.