Lost & Impounded

Impounded dog

The Council hires DSS Animal Management to perform dog control throughout the city. DSS officers have the right to seize and impound any wandering dog.

Check the following information about what to do if you find or lose a dog, and impounding costs.

More Information

DSS Animal Management (Dog Shelter)

Hours

Fees

No dog will be released until all costs have been paid. Failure to claim an impounded dog does not relieve the owner from costs.

Lost Dogs

If you have lost your dog, contact DSS Animal Management. You may also want to contact neighbours and post photos and descriptions on local noticeboards.

Microchipping and registration helps make sure that if your dog is found, it can be identified and you can be contacted quickly.

Strays & Impounding

Moa Point Road shelter

You are legally responsible for keeping your dog under control at all times. Failure to do so is an offence under Section 53 of the Dog Control Act with a fine of up to $3,000 or an infringement fee of $200.

If your dog is found roaming it will be impounded at your expense.

If your dog is identifiable, you will be notified by phone or written notice. You cannot take your dog home from the dog shelter until you have paid your fine.

Unclaimed Dogs

Dogs that are unclaimed after seven days become the property of Wellington City Council and they can be adopted or put down.

Other Lost Animals

Other animals are occasionally impounded. If you have lost a family pet, contact DSS Animal Management.

Found or Problem Dogs

To report a stray or nuisance dog, contact DSS Animal Management.

Department Details:
Animal Control