Council introduces changes to make animal registration renewals easier

Sunshine Coast Council has introduced changes to make it quicker and easier for residents to renew their pets’ registration.

Council’s Service Delivery Portfolio holder, Councillor Paul Tatton, said council was always looking for ways to assist pet owners and promote responsible pet ownership throughout the region.

“Having a registered cat or dog provides safety and security not only for residents’ four legged friends, but also protects all the animals, owners and the community,” he said.

The new annual registration period for cats and dogs will start on 1 October each year and extend to 30 September the following year. Previously, pet owners had to renew their registration each year in July.

Pet owners will now also be able to notify council of any changes to their pets’ information conveniently over the Internet via a form on the Sunshine Coast Council website.

Cr Tatton added: “Offering pet owners a renewal period outside of the traditionally busy mid-year time will enable council to provide a better service.

“While these changes may seem simple, we hope they will assist in making pet renewal quicker and easier for residents in the region,” he said.

These changes follow the fee reduction for micro-chipped and desexed dogs and cats to encourage responsible ownership.

Pet owners will start receiving their annual animal registration renewal notices in the mail from next week. There are several convenient payment methods and options available including online payments, over the phone, via Australia Post or at the closest Customer Service Office. Further information is provided in the animal registration renewal notice.

For information about pet registration, including fees visit council's website www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.