Central Coast Council is putting its support behind National Desexing Month this July and encouraging local pet owners to get their pets desexed to help prevent unwanted litters this spring.

Council’s Section Manager Ranger Services, Ms Rennae Projceski, said there are a multitude of reasons to get your pet desexed.

“Not only does it limit the number of abandoned and unwanted litters of puppies and kittens it can also drastically improve your pets behaviour and quality of life,” Ms Projceski said.

“They are also less likely to stray looking for a mate and mark their territory, reducing the risk of becoming involved in fights, acquiring diseases, being hit by a vehicle and injuring native wildlife.

“Furthermore, it decreases aggressive tendencies toward people and other animals and the development of certain types of cancers, meaning they tend to live longer and happier lives.

“Another massive benefit to desexing your pet is the reduced lifetime registration cost, which lessons the fee by $140 or more.

“Registration is a one off fee, so even if there are ownership changes or you move interstate and return, the pet is still registered in NSW.”

All dogs and cats over the age of six months are required by law to be registered and must be microchipped either before sale, change of ownership or by 12 weeks of age, whichever occurs first.

“Many pet owners aren’t aware, but they also risk a fine of up to $275 if their pet is not microchipped and registered or their details aren’t up-to-date,” Ms Projceski added.

“Ensuring your pet is microchipped and registered with the correct details really is the best way to ensure they are returned to you if they are lost or escape.”

As part of National Desexing Month some vets are offering reduced rates - interested pet owners, who want to know if their vet is involved should go to www.ndn.org.au/national-desexing-month.html