There was always a spike in the number of unwanted dogs and cats surrended to the Dubbo City Animal Shelter at Christmas, Dubbo Regional Council manager environmental control Debbie Archer said.

“It can be hard not to be excited when thinking about a new pet but purchasing a pet is an important decision and it is best to do some thorough homework before deciding to buy a puppy or kitten,” Ms Archer said.

“There are many costs and a lot of time involved in looking after a pet which is ongoing for many years.”

Over the long term pet owners will be responsible for food, training, vet fees and for exercising the pet appropriately. Potential purchasers should also consider who they are purchasing the animal for, research the most suitable breeds, and purchase from reputable breeders or shelters. 

Another consideration is whether your ability to house and care for a pet is likely to change during the animal’s lifetime.

While the Dubbo City Animal Shelter will accept the surrender of unwanted cats and dogs we are urging potential owners to choose responsibly.  If a new pet is received it should be microchipped, registered and desexed as soon as possible.

The Dubbo City Animal Shelter is open Monday to Saturday from 11.30am until 1.30pm for microchipping, registration, drop offs, collections and adoptions. It is closed Sundays and public holidays.

After hours pens are available for stray cats and dogs and are checked every day of the year. 

Further information is available via the ‘Dubbo City Animal Shelter Facebook page.

In NSW, all cats and dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age, or before they are sold or given away, according to the Office of Local Government.

If someone fails to have their cat or dog microchipped when required to do so, they may be issued with a fixed penalty notice for $165. A court may award a maximum penalty of up to $880 for pets which are not microchipped.

All cats and dogs must also be registered by six months of age. The registration, which is a one-off payment, covers the animal for life, whether or not it changes ownership.

Discounted registration fees apply to desexed cats or dogs.

Fines may also be issued for pet owners who do not register their cat or dog.