Max Hatzoglou
The Victorian government is making it easier for pet owners in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay to be reunited thanks to new legislation passed in parliament.
The Domestic Animals Amendment (Reuniting Pets and Other Matters) Act passed through parliament on February 24, and will allow Victorians to take a lost dog or cat to a participating vet clinic or registered animal shelter to be reunited with its owner, rather than having to rely solely on councils.
Before the bill was passed, lost pets had to be handed in to an authorised officer in the council area where the animal is found, or to a small number of vets and shelters.
Under the new legislation, microbreeders will have to undergo more assessments and need to declare any prior convictions related to animal welfare.
Anyone found guilty of particular offences under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 will also now be banned from working for all breeders in Victoria.
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said these reforms will make the reunion between lost pets with their owners easier and quicker.
“This new legislation builds on our commitment towards improving animal welfare, and highlights other work we are doing to ensure breeding practices across the state remain robust, humane and safe,” she said.
The changes will be in effect by October 1 2022.
