Time to pay up for your pets

South Australian dog and cat owners have just one more month to renew registrations for their beloved pets.

Local councils have issued annual registration renewal notices via text, post or email for about 423,000 dogs and cats across the state.

Owners have until August 31 to complete the renewals in the state-wide register, Dogs and Cats Online, and pay any associated fees – or risk possible late fees.

More than a third of the dogs and cats registered in SA have already been renewed, including a record of 100,000 within the first 2 weeks after renewals opened on July 1.

In South Australia, all dogs and cats must be desexed, microchipped and registered.

Dog and Cat Management Board chairman David Parkin said it was important that owners took the time to register their pets.

“It is encouraging that many owners have been so quick to renew registrations, but there are still plenty more to go,” Mr Parkin said.

“Annual renewals are a great time to check that your pet’s microchip details are updated with the correct contact details.

“For cats specifically, shelters have reported that 97% of cats can’t be returned because owners have not registered a microchip in Dogs and Cats Online and kept information up to date.”

For assistance to register your dog or cat, please contact your local council.

The Board’s website has information on the state dog and cat laws, along with a host of tips for potential and current owners.

For more information, visit www.dogandcatboard.com.au