24 July 2024
In a proactive initiative to improve responsible pet ownership, animal welfare and employee safety, Southern Downs Regional Council has endorsed a six-month trial of regulating impoundment box hours to business hours only.
Previously, impoundment boxes at the Warwick and Stanthorpe Pounds operated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing animals to be dropped off at any time. However, concerns about abandoned pets, strays and animal re-homing has prompted the trial.
Council’s Director of Planning and Environmental Services Scott Riley said Council is dedicated to fostering a community of responsible pet owners within the region.
“Council is committed to addressing these concerns by reviewing impoundment box procedures, enhancing safety protocols and promoting responsible pet ownership,” Mr Riley said.
“We have seen a spike in abandoned animals and with welfare animal groups at capacity, Council will trial new opening hours of the impoundment boxes.
“We also have concerns about animals being dropped off after-hours, particularly at weekends when they may be confined for an extended period of time with limited supplies and supervision.
“The impoundment boxes do not promote responsible pet ownership, and currently anyone can drop their animal into the impoundment boxes when they no longer want them, when they are moving town, or if the animal is sick and they are unable to afford vet costs.
“Adjusted hours encourage responsible pet ownership as pet owners are accountable for their actions and our officers can assist with educational opportunities and support.
“This move aligns with industry best practices and follows the model of several other regional Councils, including Goondiwindi, Maranoa, Western Downs, Toowoomba, and Gladstone, which limit impoundment box hours.
“We encourage pet owners to explore alternative options before resorting to impoundment boxes.”
Statistics from the last financial year reveal that more than 80 animals were abandoned in the impoundment boxes after-hours, while fewer than 40 were strays placed in the boxes during the same period. This data suggests that the majority of after-hours use is by pet owners who no longer wish to take responsibility for their animals.
Animal welfare organisations assisting Council in re-homing animals from the pounds are currently operating at capacity and the situation remains critical. Any measure that reduces the number of animals being impounded benefits both the animals and the community.
Going forward, the impoundment boxes will be designated for dropping off of stray and feral animals only, not for abandoned animals. Additionally, a nominal fee will be charged for those who choose to surrender their pets, contributing toward Council’s costs for managing these animals.
Council has also implemented new changes to the 2024/25 Schedule of Fees and Charges and removed the release fee for animals that are impounded for the first time if they are both microchipped and registered (for dogs) or microchipped (for cats). This encourages owners to take the responsible action of registering and microchipping pets to help ensure they are returned home as soon as possible if they are lost.
Last edited date 24 Jul 2024