3 Oct 2011

Dog owners should be tested for competency - board chair

12:08 pm on 3 October 2011

Upper Harbour Local Board chair Brian Neeson says dog owners should undergo a competency test to prove they are responsible enough to look after their pet.

Auckland Council is currently drafting its new dog control bylaws and is expected to consider a licensing requirement for owners, who have more than one dog.

Mr Neeson, a former National Party MP told Nine to Noon the bylaws need to be updated and upgraded to ensure dog owners are competent.

He said responsible dog owners would have no reason to fear registration or competency tests.

Mr Neeson also said dog control officers currently don't have enough power to do their job effectively.