Kiwi members of a religious sect may be putting down pets, on a directive from leaders.

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church has told followers to get rid of their animals after a young family member of leader, Bruce Hales, was attacked by a dog.

Reportedly, many have already done so.

Massey University religious studies expert, Peter Lineham, says members are being required to declare what they’ve done with pets at church meetings this month.

"We can expect possibly some people who love their dogs more than God will leave the Brethren over this." 

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