Runaway dog return prompts pet registration reminder

THE Surf Coast Shire is reminding pet owners to register their animals after a Bellbrae dog was reunited with its family by a ranger thanks to its registration.

The four-year-old vizsla, Sascha, escaped on a Saturday evening while out walking around her family’s farm paddocks with the household’s other dog, Rudi.

Owner Glenys said the pair bolted when her husband briefly lost hold of Sascha’s lead.

The family searched the property for several hours before Rudi returned home.

“I drove around the farm again and still no sign of [Sascha],” Glenys said. “I called and called for her, hoping she was still nearby. I was very concerned that a snake had bitten her.”

A Surf Coast Shire ranger later returned Sascha to the property after people about 6km away caught the dog and called the shire.

The shire said Sascha was able to be quickly returned home because she was registered and microchipped.

The shire began sending out animal registration renewal notices this month. All dogs and cats over three months old are required to be registered.

Cr Adrian Schonfelder said registration helps rangers reunite lost pets with their owners.

“Glenys and Sascha’s story highlights why it’s important to register your pet, as it helps our rangers return lost pets to their owners.

“Registration fees mean council can deliver a range of animal management services, including patrols, running the dog pound and purchasing equipment such as cat cages.

“The fees also contribute to the after-hours service, which is what enabled Paul [the ranger] to get Sascha home safely.”

Animal registration renewals are due on 10 April.

Anyone experiencing hardship can reach out to the shire for a confidential conversation by phone on 5261 0600 or via email at [email protected]

Adopted animals are eligible for 12 months of free registration.