Thames-Coromandel District Council is reminding owners their dogs must be under control at all times following two separate reports of pitbulls killing a seal, and pig dogs mauling a family's pet dog.

Police say two pit bulls fatally injured a seal pup in Tairua shortly after midday on Monday.

A seal was killed by two dog at Tairua on Monday.

Yesterday, TCDC animal control officers were assisted by police to remove five unregistered pit bulls or a similar breed from a Tairua property as part of an investigation into the killing.

According to TCDC, two of the five dogs are believed to have killed the seal pup on Tairua's inner harbour, and investigations by police and compliance officers are continuing so charges can be determined.

The owner of the five dogs, who only arrived in the district one week prior to the incident, was also arrested by police on unrelated charges.

TCDC compliance officers are also investigating the mauling of a much-loved family dog in Whangamata by three pig dogs.

Despite the best efforts of a vet to save the family dog, it didn't survive the attack and three dogs have been seized today, with charges against the owner pending.

TCDC compliance and bylaws team leader Steve Hart says these two incidents are a reminder to all dog owners that dogs must be under control at all times.

'And the killing of protected wildlife or other animals [by dogs] is taken very seriously by council,” says Steve.

'We take dog complaints very seriously, so if you want to make a complaint, please contact us on 07 868 0200.”

Typical dog complaints include:

• Stray dogs seen wandering the streets

• Notification about unregistered dogs

• Dogs barking causing disturbances to neighbours

• Dangerous dogs

• Dogs not on leashes in public places or in prohibited or restricted areas (beaches etc)

• Dogs getting into rubbish

If you are involved in, or witness, a life threatening situation, call 111.

Steve says council hates to see dogs mistreated. 'If you see anyone mistreating their dog, please call us on the same number 07 868 0200.”