Windhoek council rejects proposed dog tax over feasibility and historical concerns

The Windhoek City Council on Thursday dismissed a proposed dog tax and stricter pet regulations, citing enforcement challenges, historical concerns, and resource constraints.

The submission was made due to safety concerns posed by improperly trained and handled dogs, as well as concerns about the health and well-being of the roughly 20 000 dogs in Windhoek.

It drew heavy opposition from multiple councillors.

Among other things, the proposed regulations would require dog owners to pay a dog tax and apply for a fitness certificate annually.

This certificate would only be granted upon inspection of their property.

Proper disposal of dog waste would be mandatory and the council would be required to provide waste bins along walkways for this purpose.

Finally, if accepted, the submission would impose restrictions on the behaviour of dogs, including exhibiting sociable behaviour and not jumping on people and other animals. Personal property visits would be required in cases of ‘nuisance barking’.

Councillor Job Amupanda said these regulations would essentially impose a dog tax. He noted that such a tax had colonial origins in that it was used to force local populations into work.

He also highlighted that such regulations would be near unenforceable.

“We don’t have toilets for people, but now the city would be expected to build waste bins for dogs?”

Councillor Skrywer added: “This stuff shouldn’t become law. Will the city take away dog breeds that bark a lot and replace them with breeds that don’t?”

Councillor Jürgen Hecht highlighted the strain these regulations would place on the city’s resources.

“Don’t our police have better things to do?” He pointed out how many additional staff would need to be hired to fulfil these requirements.

Several councillors acknowledged the importance of keeping both dogs and people safe, but agreed that the proposed regulations would not be the proper way to do it.