Dog registration renewals will soon hit the inboxes and mailboxes of Bundaberg Region dog owners, helping to fund essential animal management services.
The new registration period is for 12 months from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2026.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Community, Liveability, Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Councillor Carmen McEneany said registration fees were scaled to encourage pet owners to microchip and desex their animals.
“Council encourages responsible dog ownership, and so registration fees for animals that are microchipped and desexed are the lowest per dog registration fee,” Cr McEneany said.
“Desexing is not compulsory, however owners are encouraged to have their dogs desexed to help reduce the number of unwanted dogs that end up in animal shelters each year.
“Having up to date details on your dog’s microchip assists Council to reunite lost dogs with their owners faster.”
Unless exempt under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, state law requires all owners to microchip their cat or dog before it is 12 weeks old.
Cr McEneany said the registration fees helped fund animal management services throughout the region, including off-leash dog parks.
“Council aims to have a dog friendly region in which residents can enjoy the benefits of pet ownership.
“Off-leash dog parks for residents to exercise their dogs in a safe environment are a great asset for the region’s dog owners.
“Council’s animal management team is committed to supporting the region’s pet owners and their pets, in balance with their responsibilities to the wider community.”
Cr McEneany said dog owners could follow some simple steps to be a responsible pet owner.
Responsible dog ownership
- Register and desex your dog at an early age
- Identify your dog with a collar, registration tag and microchip
- Keep your dog contained on your property
- Provide a balanced diet and clean, fresh water at all times
- Choose a breed of dog that suits your home and lifestyle
- Socialise your dog as a young puppy
- Exercise your dog regularly
- Clean up after your dog in public areas
- Control your dog if they bark
- Keep your dog healthy by ensuring their vaccinations are up to date
For information on how to register a dog, update registration details or pay a registration renewal, visit Council’s website.
Payment of registration renewals for the coming registration year are due 31 August 2025.
