What do animal registration fees pay for?

Published on 05 April 2023

Pet owners are being reminded to pay their annual domestic animal registration fees before Monday 10 April.

Horsham Rural City Council Community Safety Co-ordinator Jason Brady said there were 3944 dogs and 1766 cats currently registered in the municipality.

“It is important to register your pets and your details are up to date so if they are lost or stolen or stray, they can be returned home safely,” he said.

“Registration means that as soon as an animal's microchip is scanned our rangers can contact you and arrange their quick return.

“Of course, the best option is to make sure they don’t get out in the first place,” Mr Brady said.

Council encourages responsible pet ownership by providing a discounted registration fee for desexed pets.

People can register their pets via an online form, or they can stop by the Civic Centre to complete a hard copy form. All cats and dogs must be microchipped before they can be registered.

Pet registration fees go towards animal management functions such as responding to wandering animals and barking dog complaints, operation of Council’s pound and feral cat trapping.

It also goes towards emergency after hours animal management such as dog attacks and wandering stock.

Fees also contribute to rehoming of animals. Last year Council and its animal rescue partners rehomed 74 cats and 38 dogs.

“Registering and microchipping your pets is an essential part of responsible pet ownership,” Mr Brady said.

“The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires dog and cat owners to microchip and register their animals that are three months of age or older with their local council.

Council Local Laws Officers will start inspections after the due date and may fine owners who have not registered or re-registered their dogs and cats in the allowed time.