Can Poor People Own Dogs in New Zealand?

Perhaps today is the day that poor people can afford a dog. I urge you all to read John Palino's animal welfare policy:

Under a Palino-led Council, several major changes are likely:

1. Existing animal control contracts will be reviewed, with a view to replacing the focus on profit with an approach that encourages responsible pet ownership and supports Aucklanders’ right to enjoy the company of their four-legged friends.
2. The current euthanasia rates will be addressed. A focus on rehoming unwanted animals rather than euthanising will be introduced.
3. Escalating registration and non-compliance fees will be reviewed. Palino says "The current fee structure does little to encourage responsible pet ownership. We see a surge in abandonment at dog registration time and a shocking rate of euthanasia when pet owners are unable to pay council-imposed fees. Clearly the penalty-led system is not working."