Dog and Cat reform
The South Australian Government is seeking feedback on changes to the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 and a new Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs and Cats in Breeding Facilities.
The proposed changes deliver on our commitment to improve the management of dogs and cats in our community.
Two out of three households in our state own a pet and these reforms are designed, above all, to improve the welfare of our dogs and cats.
The major proposed changes include:
- the introduction of mandatory microchipping for all dogs and cats by a certain age, currently proposed to be three months;
- a requirement for anyone who breeds dogs and cats for sale to register with the Dog and Cat Management Board or an approved organisation;
- giving council officers clearer and stronger powers to manage dog and cat issues in their local area;
- increased penalties for people who allow their dog to wander or attack; and
- improvements to the current system of dog accreditation in relation to disability dogs.
These changes will bring many benefits, including:
- improving the ability of pounds and shelters to return lost dogs and cats to their homes;
- reducing the number of lost dogs and cats that end up in shelters;
- providing assurance to people that the puppy or kitten they are buying comes from a reputable breeder;
- enhancing the ability of authorities to detect and prosecute ‘puppy farms’; and
- enhancing local councils’ capacity to manage dogs and cats.
Have Your Say
You are invited to have your say on the proposed legislative changes by:
- visiting yoursay.sa.gov.au;
- emailing dogandcatreforms@sa.gov.au; or
- posting their submission to:
Dog and Cat Reforms
Conservation and Land Management Branch
Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources
GPO Box 1047, ADELAIDE, 5001
Community consultation closes:
Friday 29 May 2015 - Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs and Cats in Breeding Facilities
Friday 26 June 2015 - all other aspects.
More information: