Queenstown couple's appeal on dogs' behalf

The dogs after they were found responsible for killing three lambs on a neighbouring farm. Photo / Supplied

A Queenstown couple have asked for a second chance for their pet schnauzer dogs after they were found responsible for killing three lambs on a neighbouring farm.

Graeme and Vicky Rodwell pleaded for a menacing dog classification on their dogs, Pepper and Pennie, to be overturned when they appeared at a council hearing yesterday.

The lambs had to be destroyed by the manager of a Spence Rd, Lower Shotover property after the attack on May 26 last year.

The couple told a panel of councillors Lyal Cocks, Mel Gazzard and Scott Stevens they were not convinced their dogs were responsible for the attack, but accepted it was "possible".

Mr Rodwell said they had since upgraded a wire fence around their property, employed a dog trainer to provide intensive training and assessment, and taken their younger dog for regular obedience classes.

"We've done what we can so that it cannot happen again. I would have thought it would be reasonable, on that basis, that we be given a second chance."

A council investigation concluded the dogs attacked the lambs after disappearing for 30 minutes while being taken for a walk by the couple.

A witness stopped at the scene after seeing one of the dogs on the road and, after identifying and photographing both dogs and the injured sheep, arranged for his partner to contact the farm's manager.

Another witness reported seeing the dogs chasing sheep in a paddock earlier that month.

A council officer's report contains graphic photos of dead and injured lambs with gaping wounds to their throats, legs and abdomen.

Mrs Rodwell said it did not seem fair, after 17 months with no further incident, the classification would remain on their dogs "for the rest of their lives".

Mr Rodwell suggested there be a demerit points system for dog owners like that for errant drivers.

A menacing dog classification means a dog must be confined to a vehicle or cage or muzzled while in a public place.

The panel is expected to release its decision within a week.