Pet owners supported through new strategic plan
Kingston is giving extra support to local pet owners including 12 months' free first registration for your pet, review of mandatory desexing age, extra patrols of off-lead areas plus animal shelter support for victims of family violence.
The additional services for pet owners and their furry friends is a result of Kingston's new Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP).
Mayor Steve Staikos said the DAMP focuses exclusively on dogs and cats and aims to promote responsible pet ownership and provide a safer environment for all members of the community.
"We pride ourselves on being animal and pet friendly here in Kingston and this contemporary strategic plan reflects the community's needs," Cr Staikos said.
"The input we received from our community was particularly valuable and we believe the plan strikes the right balance and supports a safe co-habitation of people and our beloved pets."
Two rounds of public consultation informed the plan, which will be in place through until 2025.
Council also undertook research into current industry strategies and practices, conducted targeted group meetings, reviewed available data relating to pet ownership, dog attacks, nuisances and research relating to dog and cat behaviour in developing the plan.
The plan introduces new initiatives including:
- An enhanced registration process, incorporating free first pet registration, pro rata refunds, and a staggered pricing model.
- Meaningful actions to reduce unwanted litters and euthanasia by continuously promoting the discounted desexing vouchers and introducing a free desexing van.
- A review of existing Council orders such as the mandatory desexing age.
- The development of a dog off-leash policy.
- The provision of a temporary animal shelter to support victims of domestic violence.
- Additional patrols of our foreshore and reserves.
- Continued proactive education and the promotion of responsible pet ownership through comprehensive marketing collateral.
Read Kingston City's Domestic Animal Management Plan 2021-25.
