Pets can give us friendship, security or disability support and can be great workmates.
Corangamite Shire Council is surveying pet owners about issues related to their animal mates.
Mayor Ruth Gstrein said Council was developing a new four-year Domestic Animal Management Plan.
"We currently have 2751 dogs and 1047 cats on the books," Cr Gstrein said.
"The Plan will lay out guidelines for welfare of those animals. To help develop a comprehensive plan, we need to know the relevant issues that affect the community, particular with dogs and cats.
"We also want to hear people's ideas on what can be done to fix the issues.
"This survey is on our website and should only take about five minutes to complete. All responses are confidential.
"Questions cover if you have pets and if so, what sort. If you've done any responsible owner training, what you know about registration, microchipping and other responsibilities you might have."
The results of the survey will be considered when developing the new Domestic Animal Management Plan.
The plan will help ensure Council's resources and training are adequate to provide effective animal control services.
Cr Gstrein said Council promoted and encouraged responsible ownership of dogs and cats; for safety purposes and to minimise the potential for animals to create a nuisance.
The survey can be found at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/AnimalManagementPlan or in hard copy at the Civic Centre, 181 Manifold Street, Camperdown.
For tips on responsible pet ownership, go to www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/animals
