Breaking into the Oamaru animal pound to break out a dog has proved a costly exercise for the dog's owner.
After being filmed in the act, the man was issued with an instant fine of $750 for releasing a dog from custody, only escaping a prosecution in court and possible larger fine because he fully co-operated with police.
Waitaki District Council staff were concerned about the break-in on August 5 and worked with police to identify the person responsible.
Offenders can be prosecuted in court under the Dog Control Act 1996 and fined up to $3000 for illegally entering a pound and removing a dog.
The council's regulatory services manager Lichelle Guyan said taking dogs from dog control could not be condoned and could pose a threat to people's safety.
''Through security footage we were able to identify the person who stole the dog,'' she said.
The council had worked with police and the offender would receive an infringement notice.
''Because the offender has co-operated with police, we will not prosecute.''
There was minor damage to the pound that had been repaired at minimal cost, she said.
