Council to implement animal inspection program

Toowoomba Regional Council will undertake an inspection program to check on dog registration and dog and cat microchipping requirements for all residents throughout the Region.

The decision to run the program again this financial year was made at the Ordinary Meeting of Council earlier this week.

Environment and Community portfolio leader Cr Joe Ramia said the program led to an increase in registrations last year and was hopeful this trend would continue.

“This is a program which encourages responsible pet ownership,” Cr Ramia said.

“Last year we endorsed the systematic inspection of properties. Between 15 October 2018 and 12 April 2019 more than 1250 new dog registrations were received.

“During that time Council officers inspected 256 properties, issuing 45 Infringement Notices, 12 Compliance Notices and other enforcements.

“By running the program again this year, Council is hopeful we will be able to continue encouraging responsible pet management.

“Residents who have pets need to be responsible and unfortunately unless there is some form of deterrent then some dog owners will continue to avoid paying registration fees.

“This program should be treated as a warning that there will be zero tolerance for unregistered dogs and cats and dogs that have not been microchipped.”

The Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 (the Act) requires all dog owners within Queensland to register their pets with the relevant local government. The Act also requires all dog and cat owners in Queensland to have their pets microchipped.

By carrying out an approved inspection program, Council can improve the accuracy of its records, follow up on overdue registrations and obtain new registrations.

Improved information around dog ownership allows Council to be more proactive in the activities it undertakes.

Dogs in the Toowoomba Region must be registered after reaching three months of age.

The systematic inspection program will commence on 1 October 2019 and conclude on 31 March 2020.

To register your pet or for more information on animal management, visit: http://www.tr.qld.gov.au/our-region/living-here/animals or contact Council on 131 872.