Best to microchip your pet to avoid risk of fine from July 1

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Paws in the Park on Sunday was a big hit once again. Pictures: BRETT ATKINS

While Sunday’s Paws in the Park was once again a big hit in Camden, dog owners have been urged to microchip their pets or face heavy fines of up to $5,500 from July 1.

Changes to the Companion Animal Breeding Practices laws mean residents selling or giving away kittens, cats, puppies or dogs will need to include an identification number (either a microchip, breeder-identification or rehoming organisation number) in all advertisements.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said the new law encourages responsible pet ownership.

“Being a responsible pet owner is all about giving your pets the best life possible, while remaining respectful of your neighbours, community and the natural environment around you,” Cr Fedeli said.

“All cats and dogs need to be registered and microchipped – it is incredibly important.’’

Council offers a free microchipping service. To organise microchipping for your pet, call 4654 7777.


A local resident and her dog meet celebrity vet Dr Harry Cooper at the 2019 Paws in the Park.

At Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park on Sunday for the 2019 Paws in the Park, more than 4,000 people celebrated their friendship with pooches of all shapes and sizes.

Just about every breed known to humankind was on show, from Great Danes to Miniature Poodles and everything in between.

Paws in the Park guest, celebrity vet, Dr Harry Cooper, was a favourite among the crowd all day.

He not only met with residents and their four legged friends but was also guest judge in the competitions.

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In other four legged world news, Campbelltown Council has started work on the construction of a new off-leash dog park at Baden Powell Reserve, Bradbury.

The off-leash dog park will become the sixth to be built in Campbelltown, with others located at Minto, Raby, St Helens Park, Macquarie Fields and Glenfield.

During construction, the area to the northern end of Baden Powell Reserve will be closed to the general public however the southern end of the park will remain open.

Additional trees will be planted around the park to provide shade and screening.

The park is funded by a $100,000 grant from the NSW Department of Planning’s Office of Open Space and Parklands with matching funds of $100,000 provided by council.

It will include:

  • a dog agility area with synthetic turf surfacing
  • a sheltered picnic area
  • natural grassed area
  •  seating
  • 1.5m high perimeter fence
  • concrete path entry points
  • controlled entry and exit
  • bubbler with tap and dog bowl
  • lighting

“Off-leash parks are great places for dogs to exercise, practice training techniques, play games and burn off excess energy which can help to prevent problem behaviours such as excessive barking and destructiveness,’’ says Mayor George Brticevic.

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