Pet registration reminder

CITY of Ballarat staff are reminding residents to ensure they have renewed pet registrations.

It is a legal requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and ensures the municipality has an owner’s correct contact details in the event a pet goes missing.

This allows officers to return a pet home without having them impounded.

Pet registration fees support the City of Ballarat animal service team that works to find homes for stray and surrendered animals.

Almost 1000 animals were rehomed last year.

Registration fees also support animal management officers who respond to dog barking concerns, cat and dog roaming reports, welfare and cruelty complaints, stray animals, investigate dog attack incidents, and educate on responsible pet ownership.

“Our pets bring a lot of joy to our lives, and it is important we take steps to ensure their safety, which includes pet registration and microchipping,” mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

“Pet registration is an affordable way to ensure your pet is quickly returned home should they come into the care of the Animal Services team.”

Registration fees start at $45 for desexed animals, or $22.50 for a pensioner.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs are exempt from registration fees.

Pet registration can be completed on the City of Ballarat website or at the Customer Service Centre at The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong St South on weekdays from 8.30am until 5pm.