Animals and Pets

The keeping of animals in the Cassowary Coast is governed by Local Laws and Animal management is one of Council’s busiest customer service areas, with approximately 1,200 enquiries per year, including complaints about wandering, barking and aggressive dogs. The Animals and Pets page provides important information for pet owners and the community.

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Animal Control Program

Council's Local Law Officers provide are responsible for the following services under the Animal Management Control Program:

  • Patrol services to monitor the number of wandering and nuisance dogs.
  • Picking up and impounding of wandering and nuisance dogs.
  • Maintenance of Council's Animal Pound.
  • Investigation of animal issues relating to public safety.
  • Advising the community and investigating/resolving dog problems.

Microchipping

All dogs and cats born or acquired after 7 September 2010 must be microchipped.

Council also recommends microchipping all pets to help identify them if they are lost, injured, or stolen.

This requirement is part of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, which took effect in the Cassowary Coast on 1 December 2010.

Microchipping Dogs In Queensland

Changing your pets microchip details?

Find out all you need to know HERE

Animal Refuge Services

The Innisfail Animal Refuge is run by a community-based management committee.

Residents are advised to contact Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws on 0428 807 461 and visit the committee’s Facebook page "Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws".

Animal Management Strategy

In October 2023 Council adopted the Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils’ (FNQROC) Regional Animal Management Strategy 2023-2033.

The strategy provides a framework for collaboration between councils and stakeholders to improve animal management services and promote responsible pet ownership across the region.

Read the FNQROC Regional Animal Management Strategy 2023-2033

Forms & Factsheets