Council’s General Manager John Bell said Council had recently received an increase in complaints relating to persistent barking dogs and pets escaping from properties.

“As any pet owner will tell you owning a companion animal brings great joy, but it also comes with great responsibility,” Mr Bell said.

“Irresponsible pet ownership can have a significant impact on immediate neighbours and the community at large, and in some circumstances can attract hefty penalties.”

Being a responsible pet owner includes ensuring your dog or cat is microchipped and registered and your contact details are kept up to date. You can now update your contact details on the new NSW Pet Registry (www.petregistry.nsw.gov.au(link is external)).

Ensuring that your cat or dog is, at all times, wearing a collar and tag with your contact details on it so you can be contacted quickly if they stray.

Taking all reasonable precautions to prevent your dog from escaping from the property on which it is being kept. If you fail to comply with this requirement you may be liable for a maximum penalty of $880 or $5,500 for a restricted dog, dangerous or menacing dog.

When away from home, it is important that your dog is controlled by a leash, unless they are in a designated off-leash park, which includes:

You do not have to keep your cat indoors. However, you are encouraged to keep your cat indoors at night, as there are benefits to the cat, the community and the environment. Council can issue nuisance orders to cat owners in certain circumstances.

Owners can be fined if their dog causes a nuisance by ongoing persistent barking or howling, or by repeatedly escaping the property where it is kept. Dogs often bark out of boredom or frustration when confined or chained up so it is important to ensure your animal is well nourished, occupied and well exercised at all times.

The desexing of cats and dogs is not compulsory in NSW. However, the benefits of desexing include reducing the likelihood that your pet will stray, reduced fighting and aggressive traits and reduced antisocial behaviour such as spraying to mark territory, not to mention lower registration fees.

For more information about responsible pet ownership, please contact Council’s Environment and Planning Division on 4830 1000.