Masterton District Council [MDC] is providing restricted after-hours animal control services while it recruits staff.
MDC is currently looking for a fulltime animal and bylaw services officer and after-hours staff.
Interim chief executive Karen Yates said a lack of available staff has reduced services that can be provided outside normal business hours.
“It is not a situation any of the team is happy with, but, unfortunately, we will have limited after-hours capacity for the next two months,” she said.
A statement released by MDC this week described the role of managing wayward dogs and other animals as one of the district’s most challenging. The role is currently more difficult due to reduced staff numbers.
“We are asking for the community’s help to get us through this difficult period. People can assist by keeping dogs and other animals secure and doing what they can if they come across animals where they shouldn’t be,” Yates said.
“If there is stock on a road, check with a nearby farmer about what options there are to move them. If there is a wandering dog, and if it can be safely contained, council staff will pick it up the next business day.”
Animals creating an immediate risk to safety should be reported to the police.
Yates encouraged those interested in the animal and bylaw services position with MDC to apply for the role.
The council’s animal shelter continues to operate, with dogs being housed and receiving daily care.
– NZLDR
Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
