A range of free services for furry family members will be on offer this Saturday as City of Newcastle Rangers look to enhance their impressive record for rescuing lost pets.
To be held at City of Newcastle's animal facility in Tighes Hill, the Pet Support Day will provide Newcastle residents with practical measures to help keep their dogs and cats safe, properly identified and connected to the people who love them.
City of Newcastle Rangers Jacob, Dana and Rachael with rescued dog 'Leo' at the Tighes Hill animal facility.City of Newcastle's Executive Manager Transport and Regulation Ryan Tranter said Rangers are always looking for ways to create more positive outcomes for the community.
"Our Rangers love animals and just want what's best for them and their families," Mr Tranter said.
"During the 2025/26 financial year they assisted 268 pets, including around 100 that were returned directly to their owners because they had a microchip with up-to-date registration information.
"Our Rangers always work hard to reunite animals with their families. Approximately 70 dogs did spend some time with our team at Tighes Hill before we could locate their owners and return them home.
"Making sure your pets are microchipped, registered, and wearing up-to-date ID tags is one of the simplest things you can do as an owner to keep them safe and get them home as soon as possible."
During the community event, the Rangers will be offering free microchipping and NSW Pet Registry updates for Newcastle residents, as well as information on responsible pet ownership.
City of Newcastle has also partnered with charitable organisation The Stay Foundation to offer vet care from Mayfield Veterinary Hospital, including free services such as vaccinations, health checks and desexing for eligible residents who hold a valid pension card.
Ranger Coordinator Rachael Davis said the team is passionate about educating the community on responsible pet ownership and providing support to residents and their animals.
"Our Pet Support Day will be a cost-effective way to strengthen the bond between people and their pets to ensure more animals remain safely in their homes," Ms Davis said.
"We'll be providing a helping hand with pet essentials, access to affordable vet care, information on available pet resources and the chance to connect with the community.
"As Rangers, we strive to provide a safe and caring environment for all animals, but our primary goal is to reunite lost pets with their owners.
"We also worked alongside 16 rehoming organisations over the past year to give almost 100 animals a second chance by finding them new homes across Australia."
The Pet Support Day will take place this Saturday 7 November at City of Newcastle's Tighes Hill animal facility between 10am and 12pm.
