A total of 22 dog de-sexing operations have been approved for funding from a Trust House grant, with seven already completed through the Masterton District Council programme.

The Council’s Animal Services Team was awarded a $10,000 Trust House grant to support owners with the cost of de-sexing their dogs, with 59 applications received from owners.

Dogs were assessed for their suitability, with priority given to dogs who are known to roam.

Animal Services Team Leader Gordon Crawley says the programme has been well received.

“The owners I’ve spoken to have been delighted and relieved. One recidivist roamer had previously sired three litters of puppies. Stopping that behaviour is going to make a real difference.”

The team had already cared for two litters of puppies this year.

“Rearing these puppies, and finding homes for them, is a big job. If we can intervene early and support people to get their dogs de-sexed, that’s a great outcome.”

Under the Council programme, owners contribute $100 towards the cost of de-sexing with the remaining amount covered by the funding from Trust House.

A South Wairarapa Vets team member said: “It’s been great to see the enthusiasm from the Masterton community and shine a light on the topic of responsible pet desexing.”

Due to the success of the programme, the team will apply for funding to continue offering this service in the future.

© Scoop Media