Registration - Responsible Owner Discount
To encourage and recognise good dog ownership, the Council offers a reduced registration fee for people who achieve ‘Responsible Dog Owner’ status.
Applying
To apply for the Responsible Dog Owner, status you must declare that you have complied with a number of responsible dog owner practices, and that you will continue to do so.
Applications for the 2008/09 dog registration year open in September 2008.
There is a one-off fee of $50 payable with each completed application, in addition to the annual RDO registration fee. When applying, ensure that you comply with all criteria on the application form. There is no refund for declined applications.
If you change address, you need to reapply for RDO status and pay a further $50 fee.
Responsible Owner Status Application (54Kb PDF)
How to Qualify
You are eligible to apply if you have:
- been in Wellington’s dog register for at least one year
- have paid fees for the next year - ie you must have registered at least twice.
- or, if you can provide proof of passing a Responsible Dog Owner Education and Obedience course from a Council-approved dog trainer.
In addition to meeting the above conditions, you must also declare that:
- you have a clean record as a dog owner without any dog-related convictions, infringement notices or impoundments
- you have had your dog checked by a vet within the last 12 months
Finally, once we verify you meet the above conditions, you must demonstrate your dog is controlled on your property within physical limits by either fencing, kennels, chains or leaving it indoors (all with hygienic and humane conditions). An Animal Control Officer will inspect your property to verify its suitability.
Results
The Council will notify you of your application results. If responsible owner status is granted, the special discount is automatically applied to your next annual registration fee - unless you receive a conviction, infringement or impoundment, or you fail to pay your registration fees by the due date.
Note: Responsible dog owners must pay fees by 1 July each year to maintain their RDO status.
Related Links
- Dog Control Policy
- Dog Registration Application (179Kb PDF)
- Multiple Dog Application (69Kb PDF)
- Responsible Owner Status Application (54Kb PDF)
Department Details:
Animal Control (Building Consents and Licensing Services)
