SPCA’s general manager of animal services, Dr Corey Regnerus-Kell, said the initiative is a much-needed community-focused solution.
“This campaign isn’t just about animal welfare; it’s about keeping people and their pets safe. We’re proud to work alongside Far North District Council to reach the dogs and owners who need support the most.”
The Bay of Islands Watchdogs’ coordinator, Leonie Exel, said they are surprised by the FNDC’s announcement of a “new partnership”.
“The SPCA already partners with rescue services across Northland, providing free de-sexing and microchipping. The rescues also offer vaccinations, worming tablets and flea treatment, whether registered with a council or otherwise. This already-existing initiative is of greater financial benefit to dog owners. It also ensures that even unregistered dogs can be included, which is what we need for effective dog population management in our towns.”
Dog owners can contact Bay of Islands Animal Rescue Trust or Donna Doolittle’s Animal Rescue Trust to find out more about how to access those free services for their four-legged best mates.
De-sexing/microchipping programmes have also been run by FNDC in collaboration with local rescues and vets for many years, said Exel.
“When you are trying to assist dogs whose owners are living in poverty, there are multiple barriers in addition to the vet cost. They may not have a car to drive their dog to and from the vet. They may need help with petrol to get there, or a kennel when they get home for the dog to recover in. They might also be working in more than one job and be unable to organise the appointment, or not have a licensed driver living at home.”
She said rescue services like BOI Animal Rescue have been providing this kind of help in Northland for over eight years.”
She said the BOI Watchdogs has sent a series of questions to the Council to find out more about the “new partnership” with the SPCA, and whether it includes the usual elements of support already provided in our community by volunteers and dog whisperers.
Dog owners can request a de-sexing voucher by contacting the council’s Animal Management Team on 0800 920 029. Once a voucher is approved, the team will book a de-sexing and microchipping appointment with a participating veterinary clinic.
The vouchers will be redeemable through Top Vets in Kaitāia or Bay of Islands Vets in Kaikohe.
To be eligible for a free de-sexing and microchipping voucher, dogs must be registered. The team will work with owners to bring their dog’s registration up to date to ensure they can access the offer. Once a dog is de-sexed, it costs less to register each year.
Dog owners are encouraged to contact the council’s Animal Management Team to find out more.
