Longer dog registration period this year

Fraser Coast residents are being reminded that dog registration is not due for renewal until the end of October this year.

Cr Paul Truscott said Council had provided a one-off dog registration extension in 2020/21 to ensure future registration renewals were not due at the same time as property rates.

“While dog registration has traditionally been due by 31 August, this year it is not due until 31 October with future renewal periods to run from 1 November to 31 October each year,” he said.

“Having a dog can provide a lot of enjoyment and companionship but also comes with commitments and responsibilities, including ensuring they are registered every year as is required under Queensland Government legislation.

“We’ve been heartened by the fact that the number of dogs registered in the region has increased from about 14,000 to more than 20,000 over the past four years.”

Cr Truscott said the annual registration fee for desexed and microchipped dogs was now just $30.

“Council encourages local residents to keep doing the right thing by ensuring their dogs are registered, microchipped, de-sexed and their details are up to date,” he said.

“Ensuring your dog is registered and microchipped helps reduce the number of animals that end up at the pound and makes it easier for Council to reunite lost pets with their owners.

“That’s why we’re providing a financial incentive for owners to have their dogs both desexed and microchipped. The $30 fee for desexed and microchipped dogs will be the lowest of all the different dog registration categories, aside from working/assistance dogs which don’t attract a fee.

“The registration fees collected contribute to the cost of Council’s animal management operations including compliance inspections, dog attack investigations, the running of animal pounds and the adoption centre, fenced off-leash areas and responsible pet care programs.”

Council will also be continuing to offer free first year dog registration to encourage residents to register their animals.

It is compulsory for dogs to be registered with Council from twelve weeks of age and within 14 days of owners moving to the Fraser Coast region, while dogs also need to be desexed before 22 weeks of age. More information is available at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/animal-registration