On Sunday our Animal Control team had to say goodbye to Salty, a much-loved education dog.
Salty was a Waikato Pound Pup, who was adopted in 2019 by one of our Animal Control Officers.
“Salty was originally found on the streets,” says Animal Control Education and Engagement Officer, Zoey Jackson. “She was in a bad way, her ears were caked with ticks, she was very underweight and she'd obviously had lots of litters. Tokoroa Animal Rescue were unable to find her owner and efforts to rehome her were unsuccessful, so she came to Waikato Pound Pups. She was fostered by one of our Animal Control Officers, who thought she was very special and decided to adopt her.”
Salty became part of the Animal Control education team, going to schools and teaching children how to stay safe around dogs as part of the Dog Smart programme. She also went into libraries where children read books to her as part of the Dogs in Libraries programme.
“She loved this job! Sitting quietly while children in our district read stories to her.”
Salty was diagnosed with cancer last year, and fought a courageous battle.
“Salty has been a much-loved member of the Waikato District Council whanau for four years and she is going to be missed dearly by the Animal Control team and Council staff."
“Rest in peace Salty – thanks for making so many people smile with your gentle nature, sassy personality and beautiful eyes. You changed lives!”
Did you know?
- Our Animal Control team look after 2 Pounds - the Tuakau Pound and the Ngaruawahia Pound. We use our Waikato Pound Pups Facebook page to to advertise dogs that are available for adoption. Check out www.facebook.com/waikatopoundpups.
- We work closely with rescue organisations all over New Zealand - they help us find homes for as many dogs as possible.
- You can come and read to one of our education dogs for free! You'll find more information about our Dogs in Libraries programme here.
- We run community events that you can attend with your dog, including the Pound Pups Pool Parties and the Dirty Dog Challenge. Proceeds are given to animal rescue groups.
- We hate seeing dogs that are unwanted or suffering - so please make sure you get your dog de-sexed. Chat to us if you want more information.
