MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council’s community animal shelter and pound will desex dogs and cats for pet owners over 60.
Under the new initiative, Seniors Card holders who have a dog or cat registered with the shire can get their pets desexed for free.
The mayor Cr Steve Holland said the program would enhance the wellbeing of both pets and their owners, but also aimed to encourage responsible pet ownership and reduce the number of stray animals.
Holland said the community animal shelter and pound had been caring for animals for more than 30 years, and understood the role pets play in people’s lives.
According to research, the benefits of desexing a pet include improving their life expectancy and reducing the risk of certain health issues, such as reproductive diseases and certain types of cancer.
It also prevents unwanted litters and reduces behavioural problems like aggression, wandering and sexual habits.
Pet owners who have their pets desexed also pay a lower registration fee.
Call the shire’s animal shelter team on 5950 1838.
The free service is available for unregistered animals, but owners should call the shelter team for advice on registration.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 5 September 2023
