Amnesty for unregistered animals

Published on 16 April 2024

Glenelg Shire residents who have yet to register or re-register their animals have until the end of the month to do so without penalty.

An amnesty period is in place for those who have not registered their domestic animals by the deadline of 10 April 2024.

This means anyone with an unregistered animal, or one for which a renewal has not been done, can do so without penalty until 30 April 2024.

After this date, Council officers will be conducting door knocks of properties where unregistered animals are believed to be housed.

The penalty for failing to register or renew the registration of a dog and cat over three months is $385.

Council Local Laws Manager Jodie Maybery said 2824 renewals had not been paid this year and there were believed to be many more animals that had never been registered.

“Registering your pet helps our officers to be able to return your dog or cat if it gets lost,” she said.

“It also helps Council to ensure our animal welfare services continue to be offered locally and we are able to investigate complaints about animals.”

The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires dog and cat owners to microchip and register their animals three months of age or older with their local council.

Payments can be made in person at Council’s Customer Service Centres located in Portland and Casterton or at Australia Post.

Other payment options include internet banking, mail or BPAY.

Discounts apply for desexed cats and dogs. The fee categories are available for viewing on Council’s website.

Should circumstances have changed from last year – if for example the owner has changed address or contact details, or rehomed or adopted a new pet, or if one has passed away, these changes should be advised to Local Laws at 5522 2208 or email locallaws@glenelg.vic.gov.au.