A Christchurch dog rescue organisation will receive a $120,000 grant from ratepayer funds as part of a broader $2.7 million project to expand its facilities. Dogwatch Sanctuary, which has been operational for over 40 years, aims to more than double its kennel capacity through this redevelopment to meet increasing demand for its services.

Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust chairperson Mark Weaver noted that the organisation typically rehomes between 100 and 120 dogs annually but is on track to surpass 150 this year. The sanctuary provides care for dogs that regional council pounds across Canterbury have been unable to rehome. Currently, the sanctuary operates 14 kennels, some of which are over 30 years old, and usually manages approximately 50 dogs, including those in kennels, foster care, or with prospective adopters. Weaver described the existing facilities as worn and outdated.

The planned development would expand kennel capacity to 32 and include two dedicated maternity units, isolation and recovery areas, and a purpose-built volunteer hub. The Christchurch City Council’s animal control team expressed support for the funding, emphasizing that without Dogwatch, council services would face increased pressure. Officials highlighted concerns such as higher shelter occupancy, greater euthanasia rates, and intensified workloads related to welfare complaints and unclaimed animals.

Council representatives contrasted Christchurch’s approach with that of Auckland City, noting that Auckland lacks a similar rescue service and euthanised over 6,000 dogs last year, in stark contrast to Christchurch’s 27 euthanasias.

While Dogwatch sought $500,000 from the council, staff recommended a $120,000 contribution, which councillors unanimously approved. Weaver said the council’s support would help reassure potential donors that the sanctuary’s redevelopment plans are feasible, acknowledging that while $500,000 would have been preferable, the trust is mindful of current budgetary pressures on local government.

Dogwatch has postponed launching its fundraising campaign amid recent spikes in petrol prices and cost of living increases but plans to begin later this year. The campaign will focus on securing grants from philanthropic organisations, private donors, and commercial sponsors. The sanctuary has already secured $500,000 toward its project and hopes to commence construction by next summer.

The council’s $120,000 allocation comes from the capital endowment fund established in 2001 from proceeds of the electricity lines company Orion's sale of its North Island gas network. At the same council meeting, a $200,000 grant was also approved for Specifically Pacific (SPACPAC), an organisation with a 25-year history of supporting Pacific youth through initiatives such as Polyfest. This funding will support programmes aimed at developing Pacific young people in the community.