Think twice about giving a pet as a gift this Christmas, and ensure that the receiver is prepared for the commitment an animal brings.
That’s the advice straight from the top, Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun.
“Cats and dogs are a long-term responsibility – sometimes up to 14 years,” Mayor Mannoun said.
“If you do get a pet this Christmas, make sure you get it desexed and registered with council.
“Or why not think about rehoming a pet this Christmas? There are always dogs and cats at your local animal shelter in need of a new loving home.
“If you go away, make sure that your pet is cared for in your absence, and take extra care to keep it hydrated on hot days.
“You should keep your pet inside during the fireworks at Chipping Norton Lakes, as they can become frightened and run away.”
Liverpool Council encourages responsible pet ownership through a cat desexing subsidy program, which offers pensioners a $75 rebate to help with the cost of desexing their cat.
At council’s recent Spring Expo, it offered a free microchipping day which included animal education. Dr Katrina Warren, the Cat Protection Society and Dogtech were on hand to help residents better understand their pets’ needs and to answer any questions the community had.
For more information on how to be a responsible pet owner, please visit www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au.
