New data shows there’s been a significant increase in Mackay dog and cat registrations following a successful compliance inspection program.
Local laws officers conducted patrols between October and December last year, with inspections at Mirani, Marian, Mackay, Slade Point, Northern Beaches and Armstrong Beach.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said the inspections were done by proactively patrolling from the kerbside, with council officers only entering a small number of properties with the consent of the owner.
“It was terrific to see that many residents took steps to register their pets during the inspection period last year, with more than 400 animals registered during October, which is significantly higher than the trend,” Cr May said.
“Council has today voted to continue this program, with inspections at properties where an unregistered cat or dog has been identified,” she said.
“Targeted inspections will include the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to determine areas with low levels of animal registration.”
The inspections would also be done where a renewal had not been received prior to the end of last financial year.
“Pet registration fees are put towards the costs of running the animal management centre and responding to animal management related service requests, like barking dogs and dog attacks,” she said.
“This fee structure ensures that the costs involved in providing these services are borne by pet owners, rather than all ratepayers, many of whom do not own pets.
“These inspection programs are part of council’s ongoing efforts to ensure responsible pet ownership and to meet the community’s expectations for effective animal control.”
Council received 1949 animal management related service requests, which includes requests related to barking dogs, roaming dogs and dog attacks, last financial year.
The inspection programs ensure compliance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and related local laws.
Dogs and cats over 12 weeks of age must be registered with council.
The compliance program will run from October 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
