Corangamite Shire residents are being reminded to pay their annual domestic animal registration fees.
Council Community Safety and Resilience Coordinator Belinda Bennett said all dogs and cats must be registered with Council and fees paid by 10 April each year.
"Registering and microchipping your animals is an essential part of responsible pet ownership," Ms Bennett said.
"It is important to register your pets so if they are lost or stolen or stray, they can be returned home safely.
"The fee helps cover the costs of looking after lost animals and finding their owner.
"Last year we helped 127 cats and 50 dogs get home to their families.
The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires dog and cat owners to microchip and register their animals that are three months of age or older with their local council.
"We have just sent out 2,398 renewal notices for 3,641 animals, due by 10 April," Ms Bennett said.
"If people are having difficulty paying their registrations, they can contact Council to discuss their needs and, if required, arrange a payment plan."
