SPCA and Auckland Council launch landmark initiative to tackle roaming dog crisis

Backed by a funding agreement between Auckland Council and the SPCA, the pilot aims to de-sex at least 445 dogs across ten priority suburbs with high numbers of roaming dog complaints: Manurewa, Papakura, Ōtara, Papatoetoe, Māngere, Henderson, Massey, Pukekohe, Māngere East and Mount Wellington.

Thanks to a new SPCA Outreach Voucher Portal, Auckland Council’s Animal Management Officers and shelter staff will be able to issue SPCA desexing vouchers directly to the public using their mobile devices to send them to dog owners via email.

The vouchers will be redeemable at 17 participating veterinary clinics, mostly in south and west Auckland.

Auckland Council’s Manager Animal Management Elly Waitoa says the desexing initiative is a much-needed step forward.

“We are ramping up our efforts as we are seeing far too many Auckland dog owners failing to desex or even register their dogs. The result is more roaming dogs, more attacks, and more pressure on already stretched animal services. This is a pressing community safety issue and an animal welfare issue.”

Regulatory and Safety Committee Chair Councillor Josephine Bartley says we are aware there are instances where some dog owners in these areas can’t afford the cost of desexing their dogs, so we encourage them to take up this offer.

“By providing vouchers for owners to get their dogs desexed, we are preventing the number of roaming dogs from growing further, in the areas where we are seeing the biggest problems with this issue.”

“In these areas, dogs that have not been desexed are having litters that contribute to the problem, as these unwanted puppies grow into dogs that are left to wander the streets in packs, causing injury and harm in the community.

“I commend the SPCA for getting behind this initiative to help us tackle the roaming dog problem in Auckland.”

Between January and 22 May 2025, Auckland Council received 6,167 reports of roaming dogs and impounded 2,460. The number of dog attacks across Auckland continues to rise, with 3,000 attacks on people and animals reported in 2024 alone.

“This is a community-focused solution that is urgently needed,” says SPCA’s General Manager of Animal Services Corey Regnerus-Kell.

"This campaign isn’t just about animal welfare; it’s about keeping people safe. We’re investing in proactive solutions that reduce the risks associated with roaming and aggressive dogs.

“We’re proud to work alongside Auckland Council to reach the dogs and owners who need support the most. Our new voucher system is personal, local, and fast, getting help to where it’s urgently needed.

“By making desexing more accessible, we’re directly improving public safety and ensuring a better future for both pets and their owners," adds Regnerus-Kell.

The partnership also includes free microchipping and vaccinations when required.

Regular reporting will help track progress on the pilot programme, allowing for future expansion beyond the initial target areas.

This joint effort is a national first and reflects a shared commitment to improving animal welfare and public safety through practical, grassroots action.