Pets are not Christmas presents

Mayor Greg Williamson said pets were a lifetime commitment that required an enormous amount of responsibility.

“You need to ensure that the pet you are planning to give to a loved one will be the right fit for their lifestyle and that they are ready to take on the lifelong responsibility of pet ownership,” he said.

“When buying a pet, you need to consider the financial implications involved in owning a pet long term, if you have enough time to spend with the pet daily, and whether you’re capable of meeting their exercise requirements.

“However, if you are prepared for this commitment and are thinking about adding a new four-legged friend to your family over the festive season, why not consider adoption instead?

“There are several local adoption agencies around the region that have animals in need of a forever home, including council’s Animal Management Centre.

“By adopting, you’re ultimately saving a life and giving an animal a second chance.

“You also get your pet registered and desexed as part of the adoption process.”

Council’s Animal Management Centre will be open on Friday, December 23, from 11.30am until 1.30pm, before closing for the Christmas break. It will reopen on Tuesday, January 3, as normal. However, officers will meet people by appointment to collect their pet should they be impounded.

To see the animals currently available for adoption visit the Mackay Animal Management Centre website.

Residents are also reminded to ensure their pets are kept in a secure yard over the festive season as fireworks are planned as part of council’s New Year’s Eve event.