Being a responsible pet owner helps keep our city enjoyable for everyone. Follow these simple yet effective practices to protect your furry friend and the community:
1. Register your dog
Registering your dog with us supports our 24-hour lost and found service, helping to reunite you with your pet if they get lost. Plus, by desexing your dog through the Operation Wanted program (which runs annually from June to August), you can take advantage of a 20% desexing discount and qualify for a discounted registration fee.
2. Microchip your dog
Microchipping your dog is a simple yet effective way to ensure they can be reunited with you if they get lost. The microchip contains your contact details, making it easier to quickly return your pet if they wander off. It’s a one-time procedure that provides lifelong peace of mind, ensuring your dog is identifiable even without a collar or registration tag. Be sure to update the microchip with your vet if you move!
3. Clean up after your dog
Keeping our public areas clean is a shared responsibility. Always carry at least 2 dog waste bags with you when walking your dog in public spaces. Properly disposing of your dog’s waste helps keep our parks and sidewalks clean and enjoyable for everyone.
4. Secure your yard
A sturdy fence is your dog’s first line of defense. It keeps them safe from potential dangers and prevents them from wandering off and possibly getting lost or causing trouble in your neighborhood. Regularly check your fence for any wear and tear to ensure it remains secure.
5. Walk your dog on a lead
Walking your dog on a lead is vital for their safety and the safety of others. Ensure your leash is always securely clipped to a collar or harness unless in a designated off-leash area. With more than 160 dog off-leash areas in Brisbane, there’s plenty of space for your dog to run, exercise and socialise freely. Find a dog off-leash area near you to ensure you don’t incur a fine.
6. Train and socialise your dog
Regular training and socialisation provide your dog with mental, physical and social stimulation. There are many obedience programs in Brisbane that assist in providing beginner to advanced training, including Leave It, sponsored by Council. This program offers free training sessions that focus on wildlife avoidance and provides valuable tips for better control of your dog.
For more information on responsible pet ownership in Brisbane and to take advantage of programs like Operation Wanted and Leave It.