Whether you have a man’s best friend, or a furry feline, it is important to be well-informed on the necessary guidelines on owning a pet in the City of Kalamunda.

Mayor Margaret Thomas said, “Safety of our best mates is the top priority of the City of Kalamunda ranger team, working daily to reunite dogs and cats with their owners.”

“The City also provides an array of dog exercise areas, including the off leashed fenced dog park in Elmore Way, accompanied with expansive off leash areas in reserves throughout the City.”

“Its important everyone understands the requirements of pet ownership.”

“Just like us, dogs need some time to unwind and play, and it is important as an owner to provide this right to your pet, within the necessary boundaries.”

It is mandatory for all dogs and cats within Western Australia to be microchipped and registered, and with registration expiring on 31 October, it is required that animal registration is renewed.

Laws relating to all dogs in Western Australia are governed by the Dog Act 1976, and within the Act are several rules owners should follow to successfully comply.

As a dog owner, you must make sure your pet is not able to wander off your property and that your property is secure, if this is not adhered to, your dog may be impounded and fees will apply to collect your dog as it runs the risk of being poisoned, injured, or killed on the road.

Letting your dog wander may also cause damage and injuries to another person or animal, and in this case, you can be made liable for any damage caused.

To prevent such attacks, it is important to always secure your property when letting your dog wander within the area and always have your dog on a leash when off your property.

If threatened with an off-leash dog, remain calm and leave the area slowly, telling it to ‘sit’ or ‘stay’ may also trigger obedience training and allow the other owner to control the dog more easily.

The City of Kalamunda encourages all dog attacks to be reported immediately.

For more information contact the City of Kalamunda on (08) 9257 9999, email enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au or visit the City’s website - https://www.kalamunda.wa.gov.au/residents/pets-livestock/dogs-cats.