Responsible Pet Ownership

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Responsible Pet Ownership

Learn about responsible pet ownership in Benalla, including pet health, safety, and the protection of local wildlife. Explore guidelines on the Domestic Animal Management Plan, pet registration, dog walking, and cat management.

Being a responsible pet owner means keeping your pet healthy, happy, and safe, while also protecting the local environment.

Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, the Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) guides how domestic animals are managed within Benalla Rural City. The plan includes pet registration, effective control of dogs in public areas, micro chipping and desexing.

The Domestic Animal Management Plan is available online.

Dog Walking

Enjoy Benalla’s parks and paths with your dog, but you must always keep them on a lead unless in designated off-leash areas or in the fenced dog park. You must always make sure you always carry something to pick up dog droppings and clean up after your dog to keep shared spaces safe and pleasant for everyone.

Cat Management

To protect native wildlife and keep your cat safe and healthy, cats must be kept indoors or contained to your property, at all times. Allowing your cat to wander outside of your property is an offence under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and owners may be subject to enforcement action. Desexing is highly recommended.

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