Animal Management
Southern Midlands Council recognises the important role that companion animals play in the lives of individuals, families and the broader community. Responsible pet ownership can provide significant social, emotional and wellbeing benefits, including companionship, security and opportunities to develop empathy, care and social responsibility.
At the same time, animals are an integral part of the community and everyone may be affected by animal-related issues, regardless of whether they own a pet. Uncontrolled or irresponsible animal behaviour can result in concerns relating to noise, nuisance, aggression, roaming, stray animals and unwanted animals.
Council’s animal management responsibilities seek to balance these considerations by promoting responsible pet ownership and supporting a safe, caring and harmonious community. Through appropriate education, regulation and enforcement, Council aims to minimise animal-related conflict while recognising and respecting the rights and responsibilities of animal owners, non-animal owners and the animals themselves.
The overall objective is to foster a community in which animals are responsibly cared for, owners understand and meet their responsibilities, and all members of the community can enjoy a safe and respectful environment.
