'Our focus is on prevention': $1.2m dog desexing programme

A $1.2 million combined fund has been launched to combat problem dogs in Auckland and Northland.

Close to $500,000 has been provided to the SPCA from the Lottery Minister's Discretionary Fund towards a 12-month dog desexing programme.

The SPCA would also contribute a further $700,000, bringing the total investment to $1.2 million.

Recent dog related incidents included the death of a 62-year-old Northland woman who was mauled and killed by three dogs. Two cyclists in Northland were also believed to be chased by dogs in Northland's Kaihū in the months prior to the woman's death.

Dr Arnja Dale, SPCA chief scientific officer, said: "There is an urgent need for preventative action to protect people, animals, and communities in Auckland and Northland.

"We will use the combined funding to coordinate and deliver desexing for approximately 3000 dogs across Auckland and Northland."

The SPCA said a targeted desexing programme would prevent around 7500 puppies being born in the first year alone. Over time, the impact could be even greater, with an estimated 45,000 fewer puppies across the lifetime of dogs in the programme.

Current estimates suggested 24,000 to 51,000 dogs in Auckland and Northland were not desexed.

Access to key veterinary services remained a key barrier for many rural communities. Cost was a significant factor preventing dog owners seeking out desexing services.

“Working with our veterinary partners across Auckland and Northland, we will remove financial and access barriers that contribute to preventing owners from desexing their dogs.

“Our focus is on prevention. Desexing is one of the most effective tools we have to keep communities safe and improve animal welfare.”

The programme is set to begin from April 1 through to March 31, 2027.