Responsible Dog Owner Approval (RDOA) Ready Course

If you’re a responsible dog owner, now’s the time to prepare for Responsible Dog Owner Approval (RDOA). 

RDOA applications open on Monday 23 March 2026. If you're planning to apply and haven't yet completed dog obedience training to level 2, you can attend Council's RDOA Ready course to help you meet the requirements.

Thank you for your interest in our course. Unfortunately, this session is now fully booked. If you’d like to be notified about the next available course, please register your interest by emailing dogs@horowhenua.govt.nz

About the RDOA Ready Course

The RDOA Ready course is a theory-based programme designed to support dog owners in understanding their responsibilities and preparing for approval.

Please note: This course is available to Horowhenua District Council registered dog owners only.

What you'll learn

In this course, you'll gain important knowledge about:

• your key responsibilities as a dog owner
• the local rules that apply in Horowhenua under the Horowhenua Dog Control Bylaw and Dog Control Policy
• what you need to know in the Dog Control Act 1996.

Assessment and certification

At the end of the course, you’ll complete a short test to check your understanding. 

• You'll receive a copy of your score
• If you pass, a certificate will be emailed to you
• This certificate can be attached to your RDOA application.

Accessibility support

If you have difficulty with reading or writing, please let us know in advance so we can arrange appropriate support. This may include:

• completing the test verbally
• receiving assistance during the assessment.

When

Location

Council Chambers, 126 Oxford Street, Levin, 5510, View Map