Make Sure Your Furry Friends Are Registered by 10 April
Published on 17 March 2025
Make Sure Your Furry Friends Are Registered by 10 April 2025
Southern Grampians Shire Council is reminding pet owners to register their cats and dogs by 10 April 2025, as part of responsible pet ownership.
Registration is required for all cats and dogs over three months of age under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Acting Mayor Afton Barber said registering your pet with the Council offers more than just compliance with the law—it directly contributes to a pet-friendly community.
“By registering your pet, you’re helping to support these important services that benefit the entire community,” Cr Barber said.
Your registration fees help fund vital services and facilities, including:
· Hamilton Pound: A safe place for lost pets to be cared for until reunited with their owners.
· Veterinary support: Access to treatment for animals in Councils care.
· Food and bedding: Essentials for animals in our care.
· Staffing provisions: Ensuring we have sufficient qualified staff.
· Hamilton Dog Park: Off-leash and fenced area for dogs to play safely.
There can often be confusion between microchipping and registering your pets. Microchipping your pet is an essential step and is required under the DAA 1994, but it’s not the same as registering them with the Council.
While a microchip provides a unique identifier and contact details, registration ensures your pet is listed in the Southern Grampians Shire Council’s official register. This makes it easier for Council to assist if your pet goes missing or needs urgent care.
You may qualify for a reduced registration fee if your pet meets any of the following criteria:
· De-sexed
· Has an obedience certificate issued by a government-approved organisation
· Over 10 years old
· Kept for working stock
· Kept for breeding by a registered domestic animal business proprietor
“We also remind residents to keep their animal details up to date, it is important if you move to also transfer your pet’s registration and update contact details with both Council and the microchip registry,” concluded Cr Barber.
Don’t leave it until the last minute. Renew your pet’s registration now to continue enjoying the peace of mind that comes with being a responsible pet owner. For more information, visit our website www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au or contact us directly on 55730444.
Responsible pet ownership starts with you!