What are my responsibilities as a companion animal owner?

Being the owner of a companion animal is a big responsibility. When you buy or are given a dog or cat, there are a lot of things you need to do to look after it properly. You should ensure that it is healthy, well nourished, groomed, vaccinated, and properly exercised and socialised. Of course you will also want to make sure that it is happy and contented. A well-cared-for companion animal can provide great enjoyment and pleasure.

However it is important to remember that as a companion animal owner you have responsibilities towards other members of the community as well as towards your pet. The Companion Animals Act sets out some of these responsibilites, and gives councils the power to assist, and where necessary enforce the law to ensure that owners meet these responsibilities. You are responsible for ensuring that your animal does not harm or threaten any other person or animal. For dog owners this means that you must be able to contain your dog on your property, and when you are in public wiht your dog you must keep it on a leash except in specially designated areas.

The owners of restricted breeds of dog, including American Pit Bull Terriers, have a range of more stringent responsibilities, as do the owners of dogs which have been declared dangerous for attacking other animals or people.

Owners of cats are encouraged to teach them to stay inside at night to reduce the chances of them fighting and hunting other animals. It is also a good idea to make sure that your cat wears a bell on its collar to warn animals which it may try to hunt. In addition you are required to ensure that your cat stays out of restricted areas including food preparation and wildlife protection areas. As an owner of either a dog or a cat you must make sure that your animal is not causing a nuisance, whether by persistently making a noise, straying, interfering with other people's property or otherwise. Dog owners are also required to promptly dispose of any faeces which their dog may leave anywhere other than on your own property. Finally, you must ensure that your animal is permanently identified by microchip and is properly registered. Dogs must wear a collar with a tag which shows the name of the dog and the address or telephone number of the owner of the dog, as well as a registration tag.

Cats must have some form of identification which allows the owner to be contacted, and owners are encouraged to train their cat to wear a collar. The responsibilities of owning a companion animal are well balanced by the rewards which the companionship of a dog or cat can bring. The Companion Animals Act aims to assist companion animals and their owners to co-exist with other members of the community including those who choose not to own a cat or dog. By understanding and fulfilling your responsibilities, you can help to maximise the benefits of companion animal ownership for your pet, your neighbours and your community.

© 2008 Palerang Council
This page: http://www.palerang.nsw.gov.au/faqs/pages/1589.html