Responsible pet ownership

Before purchasing a pet

You need to consider the below before you get a pet:

  • Will you be able to look after it for its entire life?
  • Do you have any plans within the next 10 or more years that might not be suited to owning a pet?
  • Do you have time for a pet?
  • Can you afford to pay for your pet’s food, toys and veterinary bills?
  • Will you be able to regularly exercise and groom your pet?
  • Is the type of pet you’re considering suitable for your home?
  • If purchasing a cat, are you prepared to keep it indoors at night?

For more useful information, visit the RSPCA website.

Pet registration

It is a legal requirement to register your pets. There are many benefits that come with pet registration.

Find out more about the benefits of pet registration by reading this article at Urban Paws.

Compulsory desexing

All dogs and cats over the age of three months must be desexed prior to registration.

Read more information from the RSPCA about the benefits of desexing your pets.

Exemptions

Exemptions include any dog or cat registered before 1st January 2009 and animals exempt under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, which are:

  • A dog or cat that is used for breeding purposes in a business registered with us.
  • Guard dogs for non residential premises.
  • Dogs that have received protection training.
  • A dog or cat that has a medical exemption provided by a vet.
  • A dog or cat that is registered with one of the below organisations:
  1. Australian National Cats Inc;
  2. Dogs Victoria;
  3. Feline Control Council (Victoria) Inc;
  4. The Governing Council of the Cat Fancy Australia and Victoria Inc;
  5. Grey Hound Racing Victoria;
  6. Master Dog Breeders & Associates;
  7. Responsible Pet Breeders Australia.

Domestic Animal Management Plan

This plan aims to ensure Kingston remains a place where people and pets can peacefully and safely co-exist.

Read more about our 4-year Domestic Animal Management Plan.

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