REGISTRATION: THE FOUNDATION OF MPM

Registration is the most basic and essential function in MPM.

In this chapter, we review the principles that underlie an effective registration system.

MPM systems need sound foundations

Nobody can build anything that will stand properly unless they start with a sound foundation. You must build the foundation before you can build the rest.

In this respect, building an MPM system is no different from building a cathedral. MPM has every bit as much structural complexity as the architecture of a cathedral. A full registration system is the foundation. Registration might be tedious, and the effort that goes into getting it right might not get many accolades; but deep down, everyone active in MPM knows that nothing will work properly without registration.

Yet so often the quick fix is still the go. It is very tempting in MPM to avoid the core issues by keeping busy with side issues and these schemes are often introduced at the expense of registration basics.

We struggle with so many persistent problems in MPM because we neglect registration, the MPM foundation basic.

Why is registration so important?

Why is registration so important?

Registration information influences many facets of MPM. It is essential for:

1. owner link, including

• regulation

Registration records are fundamental to the whole MPM regulation and enforcement system.

• liability

Registration ensures that owners can be held legally responsible for damages caused by their dogs.

• dog returns

Registration eases the animal welfare load caused by lost dogs.

• abandonment

Abandoned dogs all have owners; with a comprehensive registration system, the owners can be identified.

• owner onus

Registration is the process whereby somebody signs on the dotted line where it says: ëI am the owner of this animal. The onus is mine.'

2. management database

Registration data is the information framework on which the MPM system hangs.

3. disaster management

A good system of registration means that a dog and dog owner roll call is immediately to hand in a disaster.

4. stop-and-think factor

Registration is an excellent way of making people stop and think before they acquire a dog.

5. MPM funding

Registration contributes to MPM funding.

6. incentive function

Differential registration fees give owners the incentive to have their dogs desexed.

7. interactive opportunity

Annual registration gives local authorities an opportunity to convey important community education messages.

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