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 dog walkers must ensure their dogs are effectively controlled.
A person who is responsible for a dog has effective control if:
- The person is physically able to control the dog.
- The person is holding the dog using a leash, lead or other restraining device.
- The dog is securely tethered to a fixed object and under constant supervision.
- The dog is kept in an appropriate temporary enclosure that restricts the dog's movement and is under continuous supervision of the person.
- The dog is being confined or tethered in, or on, a vehicle in a way that prevents that dog from moving any part of its body beyond the vehicle.
- The dog is under your continuous supervision and control using voice commands when:
- In an off-leash area.
- Being shown at an exhibition or a race.
- Acting as a working dog, a dog working for a government organisation, or a security patrol dog.
It is also important to ensure that pets are friendly and not aggressive towards people or other animals.
Council understands the importance of exercising and socialising your dog and has provided a number of designated "off-leash" areas across Townsville where responsible dog owners can safely exercise their dogs. For more information, visit Off-Leash Areas - Townsville City Council
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.
