Thousands of local dog owners will begin re-registering their pets in July and they are being reminded to hang on to their metal dog tags.

Council moved away from plastic tags last year and issued longer-lasting metal ones, which only need replacing if they are lost or the number wears off.

Council Compliance and Development Group Manager Jane Donaldson said almost 7000 dogs were currently on Council’s database and owners could expect to see registration packs arriving in their letterboxes soon.

“All dogs aged three months and over must be registered with the Council before August and it’s important that owners register on time.

“The easiest way to register is online at ashburtondc.govt.nz/dogs and all you need is your dog number, which will be provided on the registration pack you receive in the mail."

If your dog is very active and the number has worn off your tag, then call into Customer Services with your old tag for a free replacement. The replacement cost for a lost tag is $13.

Ms Donaldson said registration fees go towards funding animal control services in the district including operating the dog pound and responding to animal complaints.

“We currently have five dogs in the pound and we are looking to rehome all of them, locally or through DogWatch in Christchurch. Owning a dog comes with responsibilities and registration is one of them.”

Owners who do not register by 31 July risk being charged late fees.

Go to our dogs and animal services page to find more useful information.