Paying up for our pets

The number of unpaid registrations for cats and dogs has fallen dramatically across the City of Moreton Bay.

At the end March 2023 there were 10,609 registrations unpaid. On March 31 this year it was down to 7458 – a drop of around 30 per cent.

This comes as the number of renewal notices sent out has risen by almost 30 per cent in the last three financial years.

In 2021-22 Council issued 57,910 renewal notices; in 2022-23 it was 65,343 and in the current 2023-24 financial year 84,047.

Registration of cats and dogs is compulsory in the City of Moreton Bay.

“While the majority of cat and dog owners in City of Moreton Bay are responsible for their pets, there are a number of owners across the City that have not registered their pets,” a Council spokesperson said.

“It's important we closely monitor our cat and dog population and ensure people take responsibility for their pets.

“Registration also enables a lost and found service, allowing pets to be reunited quickly with their owners.

“Additionally, the identification system provided by registration assists in resolving nuisances caused by cats and dogs, as Council can quickly identify responsible owners.”

The spokesperson said Council‘s inspection program authorises officers under legislation to “attend properties to determine whether previously registered animals remain on the premises”.

“Prior to officers visiting a property to follow up any unpaid animal registration renewals, the customer will have received an annual renewal notice (September 23), a reminder notice and several SMS reminders," the spokesperson said.

“The visibility of Rangers within the community when conducting this program also generates an increased level of new animal registrations.”