Pet desexing program a success

There will be fewer stray animals in Orange after 30 pets were microchipped and desexed through Orange City Council’s desexing program.

The program, which ran in October, offered heavily discounted pet desexing , microchipping and lifetime registration to eligible pensioners.

Canobolas Family Pet Hospital desexed 30 cats and dogs through the program, which Mayor Reg Kidd said was a good result.

“We know a lot of people, particularly the more vulnerable in our community, were feeling very isolated during the COVID-19 restrictions and many people adopted pets to help keep them company during this really tough time,” Cr Kidd.

“It’s important all cats and dogs in Orange are desexed , microchipped and registered for their own health and protection. Orange City Council was able to help make that a bit more affordable for 30 households.”

Orange City Council’s Companion Animals Community Committee Chair Stephen Nugent said the program was a success and Council would investigate making it an annual opportunity.

“Ideally, every cat and dog in Orange should be microchipped, desexed and registered and I’m pleased Council was able to assist some members of the community in making sure their pets have this important procedure,” Cr Nugent said.

“It’s well known desexing pets is good for their health. It can reduce the risk of serious health problems, reduce your dog barking, or your cat yowling at night time and desexing reduces the incentives to attempt to escape the yard.

“It’s also NSW Government legislation, your cat must be desexed and registered by four months of age, unless you’re a registered breeder. Otherwise you must pay an annual permit fee of $80 along with the registration fee of $50.00.

“Orange City Council’s website has resources, free and easily downloadable, about responsible pet ownership. There’s information on where you can take your dog for a run leash free as well as advice on how to keep your pet entertained while you’re out.”

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