Crackdown on unregistered dogs

Dog owners have been warned to register their pets as City of Bunbury rangers conduct a major crackdown on unregistered canines.

Manger of community law and safety John Kowal said there have been an increasing number of unregistered dogs being impounded in recent years.

Mr Kowal said there was ‘‘worrying trend’’ of owners not registering their dogs or ensuring they have the relevant collar and tags.

‘‘Rangers and local vets are also faced with the distasteful job of euthanising unclaimed dogs,’’ he said.

People found with an unregistered dog could face an on the spot fine of $100.

Sterilised dogs cost $10 for one year and $18 for three years, while unsterilised dogs cost $30 for one year and $75 for three years.

Pensioners have a 50 per cent discount available to them on the above fees.

All dogs over three months old must be registered and when in a public place must wear a collar with a registration tag and the owner’s details.

City of Bunbury rangers will undertake an education campaign as part of the crackdown by conducting a door-to-door audit of households to check on dog registrations.

‘‘Rangers are conducting the audit as a way of promoting responsible dog ownership and to decrease the number of impounded dogs that are subsequently euthanised,’’ Mr Kowal said.

While more than450 dogs were impounded during the year, 419 were re-homed, but 44 had to be euthanised because they were unclaimed.

Mr Kowal said it was also a good idea for owners to microchip their dogs as well as it allowed the council to identify them promptly and return them to their owners.

Dogs can be registered at City of Bunbury Customer Service Centre in Stephen Street weekdays from 8.30am and 4.30pm.