Hamilton, 3 July 2024
In April, an individual encountered a very terrified but gentle dog in the Oruarangi Road Reserve in Mangere, who they
believed had been abandoned. They took the time to gain the dog's trust and wanted to adopt him. However, pound
protocols prevented them from doing so. The dog was ultimately taken away, and their attempts to follow up on his
well-being were met with bureaucratic obstacles and silence. Later, they found out that the dog was euthanised. This
tragic outcome is all too common and must change. The dog has been given the name Benny and his life was taken
tragically too soon.
The Animal Justice Party (AJP) is deeply saddened to hear stories like Benny's, which highlight the flaws in our current
system for handling impounded dogs. This experience at the Manukau Animal Shelter with Benny highlights the urgent need
for reform.
In honor of Robbie, the face of the Pawsitive Change Campaign for the Animal Justice Party, who met a similar fate to
Benny, and countless other dogs who have been taken from us too soon, the Animal Justice Party (AJP) is launching the
Pawsitive Change Campaign to advocate for much-needed improvements to the Dog Control Act 1996. The campaign calls for
mandatory, clear, and detailed reports on the number of dogs entering pounds, specifying how many are reunited with
guardians, adopted, fostered, or euthanised, with each outcome clearly explained. By providing accurate data, AJP aims
to highlight the need for increased funding and initiatives to prevent dogs from ending up in pounds and to better
support those who do.
Danette Wereta, AJP General Secretary, emphasises that "with good reporting, we can see where to focus our efforts such
as creating flexible payment options and enhanced contact methods to reunite more dogs with their guardians. As well as
revising temperament testing procedures, and supporting foster programs to prevent unfair judgments of dogs in stressful
situations." Wereta also added "It is crucial to ensure that euthanasia is a very last resort and is performed humanely
by a veterinarian." AJP believes this transparency will also allow every Kiwi to get behind this issue in New Zealand
and collectively make a difference in the lives of impounded dogs.
"We believe every dog deserves a chance at a happy life” said Wereta. “Stories like this show us that the current system
is failing both the animals and the community members who want to help. It's heartbreaking for both Benny and the
individual involved."
Through the Pawsitive Change Campaign, the AJP aims to bring about the necessary reforms to create a more compassionate
and transparent process. With your help, AJP can fill more pups' stories with hope, leading to more wagging tails, happy
reunions, and second chances.About the Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ
AJP was registered in August 2023.
AJP is a political party dedicated to advocating for the rights, welfare, and protection of animals. Their mission is to
create a society where animals are treated with respect, compassion, and consideration. Through active participation in
the political landscape, they aim to drive policy changes that reflect their commitment to a more ethical and
sustainable future.