Winners in the Early Bird Registration draw for 2010 in Manukau City have been presented with their prizes by Animal Control Officers Kara, Danielle and Brad. To be in the draw owners had to register their dogs before 31 July. Each prize winner has received a basket of goodies for their dogs and themselves from DSS Animal Management and Butch Pet Foods. This annual promotion aims to encourage and reinforce the positive aspects of Responsible Dog Ownership. Congratulations to our prize winners this Year

Leo from Papatoetoe with his Chihuahuas Fiona and her dog Buzz from Eastern Beach

Teresa and her dog Prue from Manurewa

On Sunday 11 October the DSS Education Team attended the annual Open Day at Ambury Farm, Mangere. This regular Auckland Regional Council event turned on a beautiful blue sky and a perfect day for families to have fun with the animals and other events. DSS ran the 'Spot the Dog Breed' competition and the winner of 'Fudge' the cuddly puppy was Sophia who correctly answered all of the questions all by herself. When she gets older she wants a job that allows her to work with animals, like a vet or zoo keeper does. Sophia is seen here holding Fudge alongside DSS officer Michael

In June this year, 2009, Animal Management staff were invited to give a talk to the residents of the Erin Park Retirement Village in Manurewa, Manukau.

Mike and Tricia from Animal Management went along with Tricia’s dogs, Rosie the Labrador and Monty the German Shepard Cross. (Monty was adopted by Tricia’s family from the Animal Shelter, almost nine years ago, after he was found on the side of the road in Mangere and thankfully seen and impounded by an Animal Control Officer).

The residents of the Erin Park Village were a great audience, who were very interested in the role Animal Management plays in Manukau – contracted to Manukau City Council to provide dog control services. Many had owned dogs, both in urban and rural situations, so as dog owners understood the issues regarding responsible dog ownership and the problems that dogs can cause in the community.

It was a very enjoyable morning that started off well with freshly baked scones with jam and fresh cream – a treat that did not go unnoticed or unrewarded by Rosie and Monty who had a few treats sent their way!!

Mike and Tricia really enjoyed their visit and felt very welcomed by everyone.

Thank you to Christian and the residents of Erin Park Retirement Village for inviting Animal Management to visit them.

DSS Animal Management and Butch Pet Foods sponsor the Newfoundland Dog Club Water Trial Day at Te Pene Beach, Maraetai, Auckland. These magnificent dogs compete in a number of activities including pulling handlers ashore and following handlers in boats. Pictured is Alex from DSS Animal Management presenting one of the prizes and DSS staff and owners with two of the dogs.