Both dogs and cats need lots of love, company, regular fresh food and water, vaccinations, worming, tick and flea treatments and regular vet checks. You should also check that your contact details on their microchip are up to date. And it’s essential that you register your pet with Council.
With cats, it’s important to:
- Make sure cats are kept indoors at night to protect wildlife and keep them safe
- Ensure they wear a collar with a name tag
- Put a number of bells on the collar to protect wildlife
- Provide lots of toys and entertainment for indoor cats
- Prevent unwanted breeding: cats can breed from 4 months of age and have 3 litters a year
With a dog, it’s important to:
- Make sure they have enough toys to keep occupied. This will minimise barking and keep your dog happy.
- Walk your dog: Exercised it for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour daily.
- Keep it on a leash and under effective control when in public. Designated Off-Leash areas are an exception.
- Put a collar with name tag and contact details on them.
- Clean up after your dog goes to the toilet in a public area.
- Have your dog properly trained to address:
- Barking
- Territorial boundaries
- Social skills
Desexing cats
Desexing pet cats is strongly recommended for a number of reasons. They can become more affectionate, better companions and often live longer healthier lives. Desexing also reduces:
- Wandering
- Risk of injury from cat fights
- The cost of registration
- Cancer and diseases of the reproductive organs
- Anti-social behaviours, like spraying and yowling
- Spread of unwanted feral cats
Microchipping and registration
Microchipping and registering your pet dog or cat isn’t just wise, it’s a legal requirement. Find out more
Off-leash dog parks
There's a number off-leash dog parks in the area that provide safe, social areas for active dogs with friendly temperaments. Find out more