ANIMAL lovers would be barking mad to miss Brimbank Council’s pet expo this Saturday.
The event will feature a mobile farm, pony rides and plenty more to entertain visitors young and old.
There will be doggy treats, the chance to chase a mechanical lure, and pet photography.
Cat and dog owners can save money by having their pets microchipped for $25, less than half the price charged by most vets.
Council’s executive manager of regulation and compliance, Josie Scarfo, said the low fee was to encourage residents to register their pets.
“Microchipping is something you should do if you love and care for your pets,” she said.
“If your cat or dog is found wandering, it’s then a simple task for the council’s animal management officers to check your name and address on the national Australian Animal Register and reunite you.”
Registration is compulsory for cats and dogs over three months old, as is microchipping for animals being registered for the first time.
Dogs and cats being registered for the first time must also be desexed.
“In short, your cat or dog needs to be registered, chipped and snipped to be legal,” Ms Scarfo said.
There are 18,100 dogs and 4500 cats registered in Brimbank, but Ms Scarfo believes they account for only 40 per cent of dogs and 15 per cent of cats.
The expo is from 10am-2pm Saturday on the grounds of the German Shepherd Dog Club, Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs.
A Vietnamese-speaking council officer will be on hand to talk with Vietnamese pet owners.
Dogs must be on leashes and cats in carry cages. Bookings for microchipping are essential.
Phone 1300734738 or visit petregister.com.au/events.
