Companion Animal Acts

Things that owners of dogs in rural communities in NSW need to know

Dog attacks in rural NSW

Farmers are the backbone of rural Australia. Dog attacks from both wild dogs and from dogs that are not propoerly controlled by their owners can have a negative impact on a farmer's livelihood. It is estimated that dog attacks on livestock cost farmers thousands of dollars each year in lost income. 

Wild dog populations comprise of dingoes, feral dogs and crossbreeds of the two. Dog attacks, whether by wild dogs or domestic pets, not only kill livestock, but can also reduce sheep flock production. 

To read the full brochure, click on the image on the left to download the 'Dogs in Rural Communities' brochure

What do owners of Restricted and Dangerous dogs in NSW need to know

Changes to the Companion Animals Legislation introduced increased control provions for restricted and declared dangerous dogs as well as higher penalties for non-compliance. This may include the seizure and destruction of a dog in certain circomstances.

This brochure outlines responsibilities under the companion Animals Act 1998 (the Act) and the Companion Animals Regulation 1999 for the owners of restricted and dangerous dogs.

To read the full brochure, click on the image on the left to download the 'Restricted and Dangerous Dogs in NSW' brochure

Two steps for lifetime protection of your dog and cat

The Companion Animals Act 1998 was introduced in New South Wales on 1st July 1999 to protect pets, people and the wider community.

More than 150,000 dogs and cats are lost or stolen every year in NSW. Many are impounded because thier owner cannot be contacted. Some may end up being rehomed or even destroyed. To decrease the number of pets that are euthanased each year, the Companion animals Act requires that all NSW dog and cat owners have thier pets permanently identified and registered for life.

To read the full brochure, click on the image on the left to download the 'Information for Dog Owners in NSW' brochure

Microchipping and Registration

Microchipping and Registration is a two step process that required cat owners to:

• 1. Have their animals implanted with a microchip by the time they are 12 weeks of age, at point of sale or change of ownership (whichever occurs first).
• 2. Register their animals with the NSW local council by 6 months of age.

Please note. Cats settled with their owners before the commencement of the Companion Animals Act on 1st July, 1999 are exempt from lifetime registration. However, they must be identified by either a microchip or a collar with a tag attached that shows the name of the cat and the address or phone number of the owner. 

To read the full brochure, click on the image on the left to download the 'Information for Cat Owners in NSW' brochure