Loveable pets – are they a good Christmas gift?

As the festive season approaches, Central Highlands Regional Council is encouraging residents to carefully think before gifting a pet. 

‘Pets may seem like a fun surprise, but they are a lifetime commitment,’ said General Manager Communities John McDougall.

‘Consider who will be responsible for the pet, and the costs and time associated with caring for it.’

According to MoneySmart, aside from the cost of purchasing the pet, the first year of vaccinations, food, desexing and other items cost between $3,000-$6,000 for both dogs and cats and approximately $1,600 for dogs and $900 for cats every year thereafter.

‘The physical requirements of a new pet are also important,’ Mr McDougall said.

‘Can the recipient give the pet the exercise it needs, is the yard big enough for the dog, and will any family members have issues with allergies?

‘Owning a pet is a family commitment that takes planning and preparation.’

During the past twelve months council has seen a significant increase in the number of animal surrenders – 164 since January alone. Thankfully, CQ Pet Rescue has been able to rehome 142 of those pets, but this increase does place enormous pressure on these organisations and their volunteers.  

In the RSPCA’s last end of financial year report, a total of 18,407 dogs and cats were received by RSPCA, just in Queensland.

If you do become a new pet owner, be aware that microchipping and registration are requirements under Queensland Legislation. Microchipping can be done with a local vet and registration with council at any of our council office locations or via the online portal.

For more information on responsible pet ownership view our website page here.

To view the full report by the RSPCA click here.