New Companion Animal Facility opened

Published on 17 November 2023

Mayor Darrell Tiemens has officially opened Narrabri Shire Council’s new companion animal facility at an event held earlier today.

The new facility, which replaces the current companion animal facility, was completed this week, and includes both cat and dog appropriate impounding facilities, a vet room and exercise yards to ensure the welfare of animals in our care remains the number one priority.

In opening the new facility, Mayor Tiemens reminded the community about the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“It is great to be here today to open this new facility, and I thank Narrabri Shire Council’s Regulatory Compliance Team for their continued work within our community.

“This new companion animal facility also serves as a timely reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“No-one wants to see dogs and cats impounded that belong to a person or family,” Mayor Tiemens added.

“That’s why it’s vital to make sure your pet is registered and microchipped – and that the microchip details are up to date.

“This is the best way to ensure your pet can be reunited with you if it becomes lost.”

In NSW, all dogs and cats must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or before being sold/given away. Additionally, all dogs and cats must be registered by six months of age.

Registration is a once-only payment that covers the lifetime of the pet. Discounted registration fees apply for animals who are desexed.

According to Council’s Regulatory Compliance Data for the 2022/2023 financial year, a total of 305 companion animals were impounded, including 145 dogs and 160 cats.

For more information about pet registration and microchipping, visit https://www.narrabri.nsw.gov.au/Resident-Services/Animals-Pets