Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Owning a pet can be a lot of fun, however they come with the requirement to take care of them. Animals play an important role in our community providing companionship and security. Anyone who owns an animal in Townsville is legally liable and is always responsible for their pets. Download the Be a Responsible Pet Owner brochure for more information.
Registration
In Townsville, all dogs must be registered and cats require approval. For more information, visit Animal Registration and Legislation.
Microchipping
All dogs and cats are required to be microchipped before 12 weeks of age.
Need to get your pet Microchipped? Contact your local vet clinic to arrange a Microchipping appointment.
Top tip: Once microchipped, keep your microchipping number handy, you will need this when registering your pet! Always remember to update any change of details with your microchipping company.
Desexing
Did you know that desexing your pet has many benefits? It can improve their health, reduce behavioural problems (such as roaming), prevent unwanted litters, and can even increase their lifespan.
To get your pet desexed contact your local veterinary (VET) clinic.
Effective Control
When out and about, owners or the responsible person, must make sure their dogs and cats are effectively controlled, for example on a leash. It is also important to ensure pets are friendly and not aggressive towards people or other animals.
Adequate Enclosure
For your pet's safety, it's important to have a secure enclosure at home that prevents them from escaping or roaming freely. Remember, owners or the responsible person, should take steps to prevent others from accidentally letting their pet out, for example keeping gates locked or taking other reasonable precautions.
Health & Exercise
Did you know providing your pet exercise can have many benefits? It can help to keep them happy, reduce behavioural problems, strengthen your bond and keep them fit and healthy.
Owners or the responsible person should make every effort to regularly exercise their pets. When exercising your pet in a public space, remember your requirement to provide effective control and pick up after them.
Animal Care Advice
Sometimes looking after your furry friends isn’t easy. If you are seeking some animal care advice, we encourage you to consider the following resources:
- Your chosen Veterinary Clinic is always a great place to seek animal care advice.
- If your pet is experiencing illness, reach out to your local Veterinary clinic for a review.
- Is your pet behaving badly? Did you know an animal behaviourist is a professionally trained person who can assist in solving problem pet behaviours and preventing behaviour problems? We recommend searching for a ‘Animal Behaviourist’ near you.
- Other options for behaviour assistance may include qualified dog trainers and other similar services.
Surrendering an Animal
When you find yourself unable to appropriately care for your pet, the most responsible action you can take may be to rehome the animal.
If you are in this unfortunate situation, to give your beloved pet the best chance at a new beginning, we encourage you to seek the support of family, friends and other networks (e.g. social media) endeavouring to find your pet their new forever home.
Unable to rehome your pet through your networks? You could seek support from rescue and rehoming groups and organisations around Townsville.
Council cannot accept surrendered animals.
Education and Initiatives
Check out our education resources here:
- Junior Education Program
- Be a Responsible Pet Owner
- Teach your kids how to become cool kitty owners
- Educate your kids on dog bite prevention
There are a number of initiatives Council is involved in to promote responsible pet ownership within the community. Such initiatives include:
- Animal Management Reference Group
- Animal Care and Adoption Centre Adoption Events
- Educational displays at community events
- Partnerships with local animal management allies such as veterinarians
- Involvement with Australia Institute of Animal Management (AIAM)
To stay up to date with more handy tips and tricks on how to be the best pet owner, LIKE our Facebook page.
