Greater Shepparton City Council is urging residents to ensure the registration of their pets by April 10, 2025. This registration deadline applies to all cats and dogs over three months old, with complimentary registration offered for pets under six months. The process involves microchipping pets before registration, and for cats, desexing is mandatory unless exempted under the Domestic Animals Act of 1994.

Geraldine Christou, the Director of Sustainable Development at the council, emphasized the significance of pet registration in facilitating the reunion of lost pets with their owners and supporting vital animal services. She highlighted the affordability of pet registration, with desexed animals eligible for registration at rates as low as $50 annually, along with discounted fees for pensioners. The PAWS Program extends assistance to qualifying residents until March 31, 2025, covering desexing, microchipping, and registration for cats at a reduced cost.

To register a pet, owners must provide essential documents such as microchipping and desexing certificates, as well as any relevant concession cards to avail of discounts. The council stresses the importance of microchipping all animals before registration and issuing identification tags to aid in swift identification and safe return of lost pets. Residents with already registered pets would have received renewal notices by mail as a reminder of the approaching deadline.

By complying with pet registration regulations, including microchipping and proper identification, residents contribute to fostering a safer and more responsible community. The registration process can be conveniently completed online through the council’s website or in person at the Customer Service Centre located at 90 Welsford Street, Shepparton.

In closing, the council reiterated the deadline of April 10, 2025, for pet registration and encouraged residents to take proactive steps to ensure the safety, identification, and legal compliance of their beloved pets. Failure to register pets in a timely manner may result in penalties and could hinder the swift reunification of lost pets with their owners. For further information or assistance, individuals can visit the council’s website or contact them directly at 5832 9700.