Council is reminding dog owners to renew their dog’s annual registration before 31 October.

Councillor Mark McDonald said that registration not only helps council reunite lost and injured dogs with their owners, but it is also a legal requirement under state legislation.

“Dog registration is an important part of responsible pet ownership,” said Cr McDonald.

Failing to renew your dog’s registration or register your dog could result in a fine under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Cr McDonald said that council is reluctant to fine owners.

“We don’t want to have to issue fines for unregistered dogs or a failure to pay registration, but we do want to help keep dogs safe.”

“In fact, for dogs that are de-sexed and microchipped, registration is free,” he said.

To find out more about dog registration, visit www.gympie.qld.gov.au/animal-registration or call council on 1300 307 800.