Joint program subsidises pet desexing cost
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Posted on March 27, 2019
Central Highlands Regional Council and Animal Welfare League Qld’s National Desexing Network (NDN) are launching a subsidised desexing program to help residents in need to desex and microchip their cats and dogs to prevent unwanted kittens and pups.
Eligible residents in the Central Highlands region will pay just $ 35 to desex their male cats and $55 for female cats, and $ 50 to $ 80 to desex their dogs (depending on size), while funds last. Microchipping is available for an additional $ 5 with the desexing.
Mayor Kerry Hayes said the program will help people experiencing financial hardship to be responsible pet owners.
‘Desexing is a great first step towards being a responsible pet owner,’ Mayor Hayes said.
‘Council also offers a discount to registration for desexed dogs and it is a requirement that dogs in urban areas must be microchipped and registered with council.’
Cats must be microchipped, but registration is not a requirement.
‘I encourage eligible residents to contact the National Desexing Network to find out more and take advantage of the program.’
Dr Joy Verrinder, NDN’s Strategic Director urged everyone to desex their female cats early, as cats can be pregnant by four months of age.
‘Kittens can be safely desexed from two months of age and one kilogram in weight,’ Dr Verrinder said.
‘Desexing also helps reduce cats’ and dogs’ desire to roam and get into fights, thus preventing injury and expensive veterinary bills.’
Residents in need of support can phone the National Desexing Network on 07 5509 9044 to find out if they are eligible to receive a voucher to take to a participating veterinarian.
Participating veterinary clinics include Emerald Veterinary Surgery, Blackwater Vet Clinic and Kyarra Holdings Vet Surgery in Rolleston.
‘We thank these veterinary clinics for providing this community service, and hope the public will show their appreciation,’ Dr Verrinder said.
Animal Welfare League Qld’s National Desexing Network (NDN) manages the program free of charge for councils.