Purr-fect partnership with RSPCA

Moreton Bay Regional Council will continue its long-standing support with RSPCA to encourage responsible pet ownership in the region.

RSPCA’s ‘Operation Wanted’ will receive a $18,700 grant from Council to conduct its annual program between 1 June - 31 August 2021.

Mayor Peter Flannery said Council would continue funding support for the desexing program for cats and dogs.

“We’re proud to purr-tner with RSPCA to support this program for a sixth year running,” Mayor Flannery said.

“It has been a huge success over the years; in 2020 there was 1,575 desexed dogs and 893 desexed cats in the Moreton Bay Region, both respectively 15% and 14% of the state total.”

RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty said despite the pandemic “Operation Wanted” was an enormous success last year and hopes to see it further increase this year.

“Some councils are more proactive than others and Moreton Bay Regional Council has always been tremendously supportive. We’re very grateful,” Mr Beatty said.

“By increasing desexing rates, we can help reduce unwanted litters, behavioural problems and even the risk of some cancers. De-sexing also reduces their desire to roam.”

By breaking down the barrier to getting your pet desexed, Mayor Flannery hoped to improve our region’s attitudes towards responsible pet ownership.

“In particular, Council is working to reduce our region’s high dog attack rate through a range of different crack-down and awareness initiatives,” Mayor Flannery said.

“One of those being our annual Regulated Dog Inspection Program, currently being conducted until the end of June, which ensures owners of regulated dogs are managing their pets in accordance with State Government legislation.

“We have a zero tolerance towards irresponsible pet ownership in the region because everyone has the right to be safe when they walk our streets, parks and foreshores.

“I’m not just saying that, this year we’ve working with the courts to fine residents for irresponsible pet ownership, which has led to vicious dog attacks and caused serious harm to people.”

For more information about Council’s pet services, visit https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Animals