Responsible Pet Ownership
Pets can be a handful, lucky there are plenty of resources to help. Whether you are looking to adopt a pet or already have some fur babies check out the Companion Animals – RSPCA Knowledgebase.
If you’re a cat owner the Cat Protection Society of NSW have plenty of resources including how to build an enclosure and protecting wildlife.
Considerations Before Buying a Dog or a Cat
Adopting a new pet can be an exciting time for you and your family. While cuddling with a new kitten or puppy is lots of fun, there are some things to consider before adopting a pet.
Some considerations:
- Breed of pet
- Exercise, training, and enrichment activities
- Cost of veterinary care and feeding
- Desexing and vaccinations
- Will your pet be alone when you’re at work?
- Do you have a secure yard for your dog or a cat enclosure?
- Who will care for your pet when you’re on holiday?
- Extreme weather events and fireworks
- What are your plans for the next 15+ years, many dogs and cats live that long!
Do your research first!
Read What do I need to know before I get a new pet? – RSPCA Knowledgebase for a great guide in helping you choose the right pet for your home.
Remember, while pets are great companions and a loving addition to your family, be sure you are ready for the responsibility of being a pet owner.
If something happened to you, what would happen to your pet? More information on safeguarding your pet's future can be found on the RSPCA website.
Surrendering your pet?
We understand that circumstances change, and you may find that you can no longer provide your pet with the care it needs. No matter the reason for wanting to rehome your pet, it is important that you look at all your options before deciding to surrender your pet to a shelter.
Behavioural Issues
If you find that your pet has some behaviour issues that make it difficult for you to care for it, it is recommended that you contact a local trainer to get some advice on how to deal with this behaviour. Getting some good advice and finding what works for your dog can make a world of difference to your situation. For more information about trainers in the area, speak with your local vet or contact Council.
Finding your pet a new home
It can be very difficult for pets when they leave their family environment.
- Speak with family and friends to see if there is a loving home nearby that would be happy to take on your pet
- If you purchased your pet from a breeder or rescue organisation, they will often encourage you to bring it back if you can no longer look after them. Contact them to find out what their policy is on rehoming animals
- Contact a rescue organisation, they can help you rehome your pet in a safe way to ensure they are going to a loving new home.
See our list of rescue organisations to help you get started Office of Local Government - Approved Rehoming Organisations
Don't forget to complete your pets change of ownership and registration NSW Pet Registry - Home
Surrendering your pet
NOTE: We are not taking any enquiries regarding dog surrenders as our animal care facility is at capacity.
If you have explored all your options and you are confident that you need to surrender your cat, contact customer service on 13 22 63 for more information. You will be requested to complete a questionnaire on your cat as we need to know all relevant information about your cat to help us find a suitable home.
The waiting list for cat surrenders is significant and we can not guarantee that we will be able to assist. It is important that you continue to explore all other avenues until you hear from Council.
If Council is able to assist, you will be required to ensure that your cat is microchipped and registered. A surrender fee is also required to be paid to help cover some of the cost of food, enrichment, health checks and any veterinary services needed while in the care of the shelter, including; worming, flea and tick treatments, vaccinations, and grooming.
For more information on Councils Fees & Charges Environment and Regulatory » Camden Council (nsw.gov.au).
Should I desex my pet?
Having your pet desexed is part of being a responsible pet owner.
Some reasons why you should desex your pet:
- Cats can become pregnant from four months of age
- Cats can fall pregnant again eight weeks after giving birth
- Dogs can become pregnant from five months
- Finding good homes for kittens/puppies can be difficult
- Desexing commonly reduces behavioural problems such as roaming, aggression and urine marking in males
- Having too many litters can be harmful to your pet’s health
- Un-desexed pets have increased costs, including food, veterinary care, and registration fees
- Additional fees apply for pets that are not desexed
If your pet has an unwanted litter, you are responsible for microchipping and vaccinating the puppies or kittens before selling or giving them away (even for free).
Owners of the fathering animal may also be responsible for sharing the costs.
For more information, visit Home | Office of Local Government (nsw.gov.au).
Fines may be issued for kittens or puppies that are not microchipped.
SCOOP IT, BAG IT, BIN IT!
Always pick up after your pooch!
No one wants to step in your dog’s poo.
Dog poo that is not picked up can be washed into the gutters, creeks, and waterways. Pollution in our waterways causes harm to aquatic life and may make it unsafe for recreation.
Carry a few spare bags with you whenever you take your dog out!
There are great options to conveniently attach bags to your dog’s harness or lead.
Camden Council provides bags at all off-leash dog parks.
On-the-spot fines apply if you don’t pick up your dog's poo.
For more information Contact Council's Customer Service Team 13 22 63 or Email.