Big changes to dog registration in Palmerston North
Published on 07 May 2025
Palmerston North City Council is introducing a change to the way dogs are registered, with the rollout of new fur-ever tags from the 2025/26 registration year. Plus a shift to digital reminders where possible.
From this year on, every dog will be issued a durable green tag designed to last their lifetime. The new tags look the same as current ones – they’re made from recycled plastic and loop around the collar.
General Manager Development and Regulatory Kerry-Lee Probert says they’re part of Council’s move to make the registration process simpler, more sustainable, and easier for owners to manage.
“We’re proud to be introducing this change. We’ve listened to the community and looked for ways to make dog registration easier and more environmentally friendly. The introduction of the fur-ever tag reflects our ongoing commitment to service improvement and responsible pet ownership.”
The fur-ever tags are being introduced to reduce environmental impact of replacing tags every year and to streamline the registration system. We ruled out metal tags as other councils have reported the dog details degrade quickly.
“Once your dog is newly registered with its fur-ever tag, any old tags you have lying around can be returned to Council’s Customer Service Centre, where they’ll be sent back to the supplier for recycling into new tags or other products.”
Dog owners will still need to renew their registration annually, but they will no longer receive a new tag each year. Once the fee is paid, the dog’s status is updated in the Council’s system.
Each fur-ever tag is linked to one dog and is not transferable. New dogs will still receive their own fur-ever tag on registration. If a tag is lost or damaged, owners can contact us for a replacement.
Council’s animal management officers can identify registered dogs using their tag number or by scanning the dog’s microchip. Microchipping must be completed within two months of first registration.
Dog owners are also reminded that we're shifting to digital reminders where possible, meaning owners can receive their annual registration notice via email, making it easier to renew on time.
Registration reminders will be sent out soon, so now is the perfect time to update your contact details or sign up to register to receive correspondence by email.
Sign up to receive dog rego notices by email or update your email address
Now is also a good time to consider applying to become part of our preferred owners scheme. This offers a reduced dog registration fee to people who qualify as responsible dog owners.
Reward yourself for being the goodest of owners and apply now
For more information about fur-ever tags, or anything to do with dog registration, visit pncc.govt.nz/dogrego