New SPCA partnership supports responsible pet ownership

A new partnership providing dog desexing and microchipping vouchers to eligible owners in the Far North aims to reduce the number of unwanted animals entering local shelters and support responsible pet ownership.

The targeted initiative combines the efforts of the council’s Animal Management Team and SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to reduce the number of unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Te Hiku o Te Ika.

Community feedback for the council's Animal Management Survey conducted in August called for greater control of backyard breeding, which has been identified as a key contributor to large numbers of dogs and puppies being dumped. Animal rescue centres are often overwhelmed by the sheer volume of abandoned dogs and puppies. Evidence shows that desexing dogs reduces the impacts of uncontrolled breeding and improves animal welfare, as well as supporting safer, healthier communities across the district.

SPCA’s General Manager of Animal Services, Dr. Corey Regnerus-Kell says the initiative is a much needed community-focused solution.

"This campaign isn’t just about animal welfare; it’s about keeping people and their pets safe. We’re proud to work alongside Far North District Council to reach the dogs and owners who need support the most."

Dog owners can request a desexing voucher by contacting the council’s Animal Management Team on 0800 920 029. Once a voucher is approved, the team will book a desexing and microchipping appointment with a participating veterinary clinic. The vouchers will be redeemable through Top Vets in Kaitāia or Bay of Islands Vets in Kaikohe.

To be eligible for a free desexing and microchipping voucher, dogs must be registered. The team will work with owners to bring their dog’s registration up to date to ensure they can access the offer.

Microchipping ensures animals are identifiable and can be reunited with their owners if they go missing. All dogs must be microchipped in the Far North except for working dogs. You can find out more about microchipping here.

Once a dog is desexed, it costs less to register each year.

Dog owners are encouraged to contact the council's Animal Management Team to find out more.