A Guide to Keeping Dogs in Dalby

Keeping a pet is a big responsibility. In particular, improperly controlled dogs can often cause many problems in urban areas around town, and are also a danger to the public.

Council has prepared this guide to help inform all dog owners of their responsibilities, and to help everyone comply with Council's Local Laws. Please keep this guide for future reference. Dog licence fees are listed in the General Charges Schedule.
View the General Charges Schedule (PDF)

Registration Age
All dogs over THREE (3) months old must be registered. Council will conduct house-to-house inspections from time to time with fines issued to keepers of unregistered dogs.

Registration Tags
Registered dogs should wear a collar and their tag at all times. Unless your dog is wearing its registration tag, Council cannot identify the owner to arrange for the return of the dog. Even if your dog is microchipped, a registration tag should still be on the dog.

Desexing of Animals
All dogs in the town area should be desexed. It is a great way to help control your dog; it generally improves their temperament and they will wander less.

Council's registration fees are designed to encourage desexing by helping to make it more affordable - you stand to make considerable savings every year having your dog desexed. Council also offers a refund of 50% of your last registration fee if you have recently had your dog desexed. Contact your vet today.

Deceased Dogs or Dogs that Leave the Town Limits
If you remove your dog from the town limits or you dog passes away within six (6) months of registering, a fifty percent rebate is available on your last registration fee, please contact Council for details. View the General Charges Schedule (PDF)

More than One Dog
Want more than one dog? You should first check with Council. Depending on the size of your block, you may only be allowed one dog. It is best to check before either getting a second dog or moving house.

Registration Fees
Dalby Town Council has set registration fees as per Council's Fees and Charges.

Registration Discount Period
If you renew your dog registration on or before discount date, you will receive a 10% discount on your registration fee. Tip - get in early to avoid the queues!

Walking Your Dog
Regularly walk your dog. Some dogs need up to 30 minutes walk per day, and they will sure let you know if they don't get walked! Make sure that you walk your dog on a leash at all times.

Wandering Dogs
Wandering dog can be a real nuisance; especially when they dig up the neighbour's gardens, chase the postie or chase cars! Sadly, many pets are struck by cars and killed in Dalby when wandering on roads. Fines may be issued for wandering dogs, even if the dog is registered. Remember, a fenced yard may keep your dog from wandering.

Clean up After your Dog
Keepers of dogs have a responsibility to clean up after your dog. Council regularly receives complaints when dog owners fail to remove dog faeces from their backyard. Clean your yard regularly to avoid any odour complaints.

Barking Dogs
Barking dogs will disturb your whole neighbourhood. Dogs often bark when they are bored, so give your dog the attention it deserves, give your dog a regularl walk and keep it busy (ie chew toys etc). If your dog keeps barking, consider using an anti-barking collar.

Train your Dog
A trained dog is often a well-behaved dog. Check with your vet for any obedience courses that may be held from time to time.

Lost or Impounded Dogs
Sadly, most dogs that go to the pound will never be claimed by their owner. Council can only keep dogs and cats at its pound for a minimum of three (3) working days. Every month, Council is forced to put down anywhere between 15 to 25 dogs. If you loose your dog, contact Council as soon as possible.

Release Fees for Impounded Dogs
Release fees of a registered dog from the pound is as per Council's Fees and Charges. The release of an unregistered dog from the pound will incur release fees together with registration fees.
View the General Charges Schedule (PDF)

Attacking, Aggressive or Dangerous Dogs
Attacking or aggressive dogs are a real problem for the community. All dog owners have a responsibility to ensure that their dog does not attack humans or other animals or act aggressively. Look for the warning signs - have you ever seen your dog react or act aggressively before? If so, consider consulting your vet.

Should your dog attack another person or animal and a complaint is received, Council will take appropriate action to protect the community. In some cases, the dog may be seized and destroyed and legal action may be commenced. Remember, prevention is better than a cure - keeping your dog under control at all times will go a long way to prevent any dangerous situations.

Restricted Dogs
A recent state government law means that there are new requirements for the keeper of Restricted Dogs (restricted dogs are of the breeds: dogo Argentino, fila Brasileiro, Japanese fosa or American/Pit Bull terrier and any cross breeds of these dogs). Owners of these dogs must have a specific permit from Council, and comply with other specific requirements. Owners of these restricted dogs should contact Council.

CONTACT DETAILS
Dog Registration Enquiries: (07) 4672 1151
Town Ranger (lost dogs, animal complaints etc): 0418 790 543
After Hours (Urgent calls only - please leave a message): 0418 790 543