Stray Animals
The Companion Animals Act 1998 requires that your dog must be adequately contained on your property.
If your dog is in a public place and not in a designated off leash area, it must be under the effective control of some competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and that is being held (or secured to) the person.
Any person (including Council’s Regulations Officer) can seize a dog that is in a public place and is not under the effective control of a competent person. Should the owner of the dog be present only Council’s Regulations Officer may seize the animal should the owner not comply with the above requirements.
Any dog, which is seized by a member of the public, is required to return the animal to its owner (if the owner is known) or contact Council to make arrangements for it to be transported to the Animal Shelter. Any person, who seizes a dog and does not return it to its owner or notify Council, is guilty of an offence, which may incur a fine.
Cats
Council may collect cats by request, if they are appropriately contained, subject to staff availability.
Seized Dogs and Cats
Council will house straying animals for 14 days, if the owner of that animal can be identified. If the owner cannot be identified, Council will house the straying animal for 7 days. If the animal is not claimed within these time periods, facility staff endeavour to sell the animal or re-home it, however if unsuccessful, the animal may be euthanised.
Owners releasing a seized animal will be required to pay a release fee and maintenance fees for the keeping and sustenance of that animal.
All dogs and cats released, must be micro chipped and lifetime registered.
For enquiries on lost animals, please contact Council on 68 95 1950 during office hours.
After Hours
Council's after hours service is only available for emergency situations involving a dangerous or restricted breed dog roaming, straying animals or where a dog attack has occurred. Should you require assistance please contact (02) 6895 1950 or the local Police who will contact Council's After Hours Service if they require assistance.
Livestock
Should you find livestock roaming free or in a dangerous place, such as on or near a road, please contact Council on (02) 6895 1950 during business hours. If outside of business hours please contact Council’s After Hours Service or the local Police.
