Griffith City Council is reminding residents that welcoming a pet into your home is a big decision and a lifelong commitment.
Responsible pet ownership goes beyond love, it means taking full accountability for the health, well-being and behaviour of your pet throughout its entire life. It's about ensuring their physical, mental and emotional needs are met, and being a considerate member of our community.
Council has put together a Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership to assist you in your journey to pet ownership:
- Decide
- Understand that pet ownership is a long-term commitment, do not adopt a pet unless you're ready for the responsibility for its entire life. Different animals have different lifespans (e.g., dogs may live 10–15 years, cats 12–20+).
- Research size, breed and temperament to ensure an animal is compatible with you and your lifestyle (work, travel, kids, time available to spend with a pet).
- Consider the suitability of your home; Does the animal need indoor or outdoor time? Does your landlord allow pets? Do you have a secure and safe yard?
- Assess your budget (adoption fees, food, grooming, boarding, vet)
Choose
- Adoption versus buying; consider adopting from an Animal Shelter or Rescues as it is the most rewarding option; you'll give an animal a second chance in finding a loving forever home. If you are buying an animal, ensure you buy from a registered breeder.
Comply
- All cats and dogs must be microchipped and registered on the NSW Pet Registry by 12 weeks of age or when sold if earlier then 12weeks. Microchipping assists reuniting lost pets with their families.
- Ensure your details on the NSW Pet Register are up-to-date; you can change details online using your NSW Service account or by visiting Council at zero cost.
- Make sure your dog is under effective control (on a leash) and collect and dispose of your dog's waste when out in public places.
- Prevent your dog from excessive barking, acting aggressively, damaging property and ensure your dog is confined to your property.
- Prevent your cat from making persistent, excessive noises that interfere with the peace and comfort of any person in any other premises and ensure its not damaging anything outside your home.
Care
- Desex your dog by 6 months of age and cat by 4 months of age to prevent unwanted litters and additional fees from the NSW Pet Registry. Desexing your pet improves behaviour and contributes to better long-term health.
- Schedule regular check-ups and vaccinations.
- Control fleas, ticks and worms.
Enrich
- Pets need more than food and shelter. Provide exercise, play, training, safe spaces and social interaction to support their physical and mental wellbeing, creating a happier pet and a stronger bond with your family.
The Griffith Pound and Animal Rehoming Centre has many cats and dogs looking for their forever homes. Adopting gives an animal a second chance whilst bringing joy to your family.
View animals currently available at griffith.nsw.gov.au/adopt-a-pet
"Adoption is the most rewarding way to add a pet to your family," said Karin Penninga, Council's Animal Control and Parking Compliance Coordinator.
"When you choose to adopt, you're not just bringing home a pet, you're opening your heart and giving an animal a second chance at love and happiness."
