Pet Owners To Be Aware Of New Fines

Post date: Jun 30, 2020 5:41:47 AM

The NSW Government is introducing annual permits for non-desexed cats and restricted and dangerous dogs.

From July 1, owners of cats not desexed by four months of age will be required to pay an $80 annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee.

However, there are a limited number of exemptions.

The Mid-Western Regional Council says improving desexing rates is intended to ease the burden on pounds and shelters, reduce euthanasia rates, and protect the environment and native wildlife by reducing the number of stray and roaming cats.

From 1 July 2020 owners of dogs of a restricted breed or formally declared to be dangerous will be required to pay a $195 annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee.

While the legislation has been introduced by the NSW Government, it will be enforced by local councils.

Pet owners have an obligation to apply for the permits, otherwise they face an on-the-spot $400 fine for non-desexed cats and $700 for restricted and dangerous dog breeds.

Pet owners can pay for annual permits at any Council Customer Service Centre.