Free Registration for Puppies and Rescue Dogs

Puppies under six months can now be registered with Council for free thanks to a new initiative to encourage responsible pet ownership.

The initial registration for rescue dogs adopted from Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws refuge will also now be free.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Chief Executive Officer Andrew Graffen explained why it’s so important to register an animal with Council.

“In the last year we intercepted and impounded 155 wandering dogs, but only 66 were reunited with owners,” Mr Graffen said.

“We were able to rehome 82 animals, but the ideal outcome would have been to know where they came from so they could be safely returned home where possible.”

Animal management is among Council’s highest customer service areas, with 1,200 enquiries received within the year including complaints about barking or neglected dogs.  Mr Graffen said the Cassowary Coast isn’t unique to these challenges, with Council recently adopting the first Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils’ (FNQROC) Regional Animal Management Strategy 2023-2033 (Strategy).

“Through the Strategy we’re collaborating across councils and stakeholders so that we’re consistent in our approach to better animal management outcomes for communities,” Mr Graffen said.

“This includes building relationships and partnerships across the Far North, sharing resources, and assisting in day-to-day operations for improved animal management outcomes including responsible pet ownership.”

For information about animal management and to read the Regional Animal Management Strategy go to https://www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/animal-management.

For further information contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

Photo: Otis Kain from Wongaling Beach with 4 month old puppy Leela.