The Responsible Paws Project is a new Mornington Peninsula Shire initiative aimed at helping eligible pension holders access free microchipping and low-cost desexing for their cats and dogs.
The project aims to support community members who love their pets but need a helping hand with care costs. It will reduce financial barriers that may prevent pets from being microchipped, desexed and registered.
Microchipping gives pets a much greater chance of being reunited with their owners if they become lost, while desexing can improve animal health, reduce some unwanted behaviours and help prevent unplanned litters.
Under the Responsible Paws Project, the Shire has partnered with local veterinary clinics to offer low-cost desexing by covering 50% of the desexing procedure. Participating clinics include Mornington Veterinary Clinic (Mornington); Peninsula Veterinary Clinic (Hastings); Peninsula Vet Care (Mt Eliza, East Mornington, Dromana, Rosebud and Rye); and Westernport Veterinary Clinic (Hastings, Somerville and Balnarring).
These clinics have been carefully selected to provide options across the Shire for eligible pet owners and will provide safe, professional care for dogs and cats.
Mayor Stephen Batty said the Responsible Paws Project is about helping more residents access practical support to keep their cats and dogs safe, healthy and identifiable.
"Pets are an important part of many households, and we know the cost of microchipping and desexing can be a barrier for some people," Cr Batty said.
"By working with local veterinary clinics, Council is making it easier for eligible residents to access services that support better outcomes for their pets and the wider community."
Maggie Hunter, Practice Manager at Mornington Veterinary Clinic, said, "Partnering with the Council and the Responsible Paws Project was an easy decision. For most pets, desexing offers many health benefits and prevents unwanted litters. Making this service more accessible means we can improve pet welfare across the Peninsula while also supporting the wider community."
Participating veterinary clinics:
- Mornington Veterinary Clinic (Mornington)
- Peninsula Veterinary Clinic (Hastings)
- Peninsula Vet Care (Mt Eliza, East Mornington, Dromana, Rosebud and Rye)
- Westernport Veterinary Clinic (Hastings, Somerville and Balnarring)
