Animals and pets

Responsible pet ownership

The Companion Animals Act 1998 was designed to benefit pets, their owners and the wider community. The Act covers all dogs and cats in NSW and provides guidelines for pet owners to follow, to ensure their pets are happy, healthy and not a problem to the community. Find out what the Act says about responsible pet ownership.

Identification and registration

In NSW, around 80,000 dogs and cats are lost, hurt or stolen each year. Many are not able to be identified and returned to their owners. To prevent this from occurring, the Companion Animals Act 1998 requires that all cats and dogs be microchipped and registered for life. This easy two-step process will help return your pet to you if it is hurt, lost or stolen.

Walking your dog

Taking your dog for a walk is not only great fun and exercise but it is also a great way to reduce barking problems and socialises your dog to the world. The Woollahra Council area has around 43 hectares of parks and reserves for you and your dog to enjoy. Find the best locations to walk your dog.

Nuisance dogs

Council has powers to deal with various nuisance behaviour by issuing a Nuisance dog order. Complaints about barking dogs are one of the most common calls made to the Council’s Rangers. In this section we have advice on how to prevent your dog barking and what to do if you have a barking dog next door.

Dog attacks

While only a small percentage of dogs will ever be involved in an attack, the Companion Animals Act provides council with various powers of investigation and enforcement following an attack occurring. Find out what is a 'dangerous', 'menacing' and 'restricted' dog and what actions the council can take if a dog attack is reported.

Cats

Important information about responsible cat ownership as well as what can be done if cats are causing a nuisance.

Lost and found animals

What to do and where to go if you have lost your pet or found a pet.

Choosing the purr-fect pet

A pet is life-long commitment. It is important that you pick the pet that best suits your needs and lifestyle. In this section we have advice on choosing the perfect pet.

Dogs and kids safety

Having a pet can be great fun for children. Pets teach kids responsibility and help them to learn empathy. Children and dogs are not always going to start off with a wonderful friendship. Here are some hints on how to get children and dogs mixing safely together.

Dead or injured animals

We collect dead animals found in public places and provide advice on what to do and where to go if you have a dead or injured animal on your property.

Native animals and wildlife

Possums, bats, bees, etc
Native animals in our suburbs are to be encouraged, however, they sometimes cause a nuisance by invading areas in or close to our homes. We provide information on what to do and where to go to get assistance.

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