November 10, 2018
Toowoomba Regional Council is clamping down on unregistered dogs, and dogs and cats who haven’t been microchipped.
The Council started a region-wide inspection program to check dog registrations and microchipping earlier this month, and has already issued fines to non-compliant residents.
Environment and Community portfolio leader Cr Joe Ramia says the program is worthwhile because it encourages responsible pet ownership.
“As a pet owner it’s important to understand the obligations and responsibilities of keeping cats and dogs on your property,” he said.
“All dogs in the Toowoomba Region must be registered with Council to ensure the wellbeing of our community and our animals.
“Registration and microchipping also ensures that should your pet wander away from home, we will be able to return your furry friend to you as soon as possible.
“We all do our best for our pets and it would be horrible if we weren’t able to be reunited if they did escape, which is why registration and microchipping is an important safeguard.”
Animal Management staff will continue checks over the coming six months.
All cats and dogs over the age of eight weeks in residential and rural residential areas of the Toowoomba Regional Council area must be microchipped, and dogs over three months of age need to be registered with the Council.
The only exception is any dog that was older than 12 weeks when the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act came into effect on July 1, 2009.
Residents who still own dogs that meet this criterion are not required to have the dog microchipped, although it is recommended.
Cr Ramia said Toowoomba Region aims to be dog friendly and improved information on dog ownership allows the Council to be more proactive.
However, he warned Council has zero tolerance for unregistered dogs and animals that have not been microchipped.
Toowoomba Region residents who want to register their pet or get more information about responsible pet ownership should visit Council’s website or contact the Council on 131-872.
