A FREE pets giveaway leads the latest Frankston Council push to reward responsible ownership of animals.
Councillors at the 13 August public council meeting voted to back a proposal by Cr Kris Bolam to “give away” the first 15 animals adopted from council managed pounds in the month of October when the Pets Day Out event is held.
Frankston dog owners who can provide evidence of accredited obedience training will be eligible for a 10 per cent discount on annual registration fees.
There will be no registration fees for service animals such as guide dogs.
“By having a joint emphasis on both responsible pet ownership and enhancing pet adoptions, the message should be that Frankston is indeed a pet-friendly city,” Cr Bolam said.
“All animals eligible for adoption at council’s pound have had their vaccinations and relevant health checks. They are ready for a new and happy life.”
Owners who want the “menacing animal” status of their pet revoked after three years must now mandatorily put their pet through accredited obedience training.
“If a canine has been classified as a ‘menacing dog’, it is with very good reason,” Cr Bolam said.
“This new process ensures that there has been a manifest improvement in their behaviour before that classification is removed.”
The latest council incentives for responsible pet owners come after councillors voted in July to drop the first year registration fee for any animals adopted by Frankston ratepayers from council-run pounds.