Central Coast Council is encouraging community members to \u2018adopt, not shop\u2019 when making the commitment to bring a new companion animal into their home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This follows the NSW Government\u2019s announcement of free lifetime pet registration for people who adopt a rescue pet from Council pounds, animal shelters and rehoming organisations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Council Unit Manager Environmental Compliance and Systems, Sara Foster said free registration for rescue pets will ensure more abandoned or surrendered cats and dogs find a forever home, reinforcing the benefits of animal adoption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThanks to the announcement from the NSW Government, community members who choose to adopt a rescue dog or cat from Council\u2019s Animal Care Facilities are now entitled to free lifetime pet registration,\u201d Ms Foster said.
\u201cCouncil works closely with our Animal Care Facilities at Charmhaven and Erina to ensure surrendered pets can find a suitable and safe new home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWith backyard breeding a huge issue on the Central Coast, we hope that this new initiative will make adoption an even more desirable pathway for those looking for a pet, so that we can reduce the number of people accessing unregistered breeders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe look forward to seeing the positive impact this has on the animals in our care.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Council Administrator, Rik Hart said pets are a much loved part of the fabric of the Central Coast and this new registration fee exemption will make adoption an even more desirable choice for community members searching for a new companion animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIf you\u2019re looking for a new four legged friend, I encourage you to contact Council\u2019s Animal Welfare Facilities to find out more about the animals currently up for adoption,\u201d Mr Hart said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s important to remember that while owning a pet can be highly rewarding, it is also a big responsibility. Pet owners are encouraged to visit Council\u2019s website to learn more about their responsibilities, not only to their pet, but also to the wider Central Coast community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n