Owning a pet
It is important that you know your legal responsibilities and understand what you need to do to meet them. By law you are considered the owner of a dog or cat even if you are only caring for the animal for a short period of time.
The owner as described in the Domestic Animals Act 1994 "in respect of a dog or cat, includes a person who keeps or harbours the animal or has the animal in his or her care for the time being whether the animal is at large or in confinement".
This includes unowned or feral cats, if you are feeding or housing them you are considered by law to be the owner. Therefore you are required by law to microchip and register the animal with Council from 3 months of age.
Other things to consider before becoming a pet owner:
- Do you have time to care for the pets needs? eg: daily exercise, grooming needs, obedience training and play
- Do you live in a suitable location and type of housing for a pet?
- Do you have adequate space for the pet you are considering?
- What hours do you work, and will the pet have any company during the day?
- If renting accommodation, are you permitted to own a pet?
- Are your fences secure to contain a pet?
Visit Keeping Multiple Animals to understand Council's local laws in regards to owning pets.