Council gets tough on pets

PET owners could face hefty fines under a Casey Council clampdown on unregistered animals.
The move follows the prosecution of Cranbourne East man Zond Turner who recently pleaded guilty to nine charges relating to the escape of his two pit bull terriers from his property.
While on the loose the dogs attacked a resident.
Mr Turner was convicted and fined $2750. He was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of more than $2,900 and destroy both dogs.
Mr Turner has since lodged an appeal with the County Court regarding the severity of the sentence.
Council officers have begun door knocking homes and talking to animal owners in Casey’s parks and streets in a bid to identify unregistered dogs and cats.
People found in possession of unregistered animals aged over three months old face on the spot fines of $210 for each animal.
Casey Manager Customer Service Rob Colling reminded dog owners to keep their pets on a leash when in public and ensure they are wearing a council issued tag.
“Cat owners are required to confine their pets to their property at all times.
“Apart from it being a legal obligation, animal registration provides a number of benefits, not the least of which is that they are more easily returned to you in the event that they are found if lost or stolen,” he said.
The cost of animal registration reduces by more than 65 per cent if the animal has been desexed or micro chipped.
For more information on animal registration or responsible pet ownership contact City of Casey Local Laws on 9705 5200 or visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/pets