One hundred and twenty-four (124) dogs have been put down by the Cook Islands Police in the past three months.

In January 34 dogs were put down, 44 in February and 46 dogs last month.

Police spokesperson Trevor Pitt said the monthly record of 48 dogs was recorded in May last year.

Earlier this week, police received a dog complaint from Nikao.

Pitt said up to seven dogs were identified to be harassing motorists. Four dogs were located, all were unregistered, and the owners were unknown at the time they were put down.

“Owners are spoken to if identified, as some request the responsibility to put down themselves. In which case, Police follow up to ensure it’s done,” Pitt said.

“Dog owners are being told to register and supervise their pets as more rangers step up patrols.”

In an earlier report, police reiterated the message that registration and proper supervision of dogs was a concern.

In January, Police Commissioner Turepu James Keenan signed off warrants for dog rangers to provide support in assisting police with dog control. 

That includes de-sexing, registration and awareness about ownership responsibility.

They are to assist the Police Dog Ranger team in the efforts to manage the issues associated with dogs around Rarotonga.