Animals bring joy and pleasure to their owners, but there are many responsibilities that come with having a pet. Our Ranger Services Team works with Central Highlands’ residents to ensure animals are appropriately cared for and managed, to maintain the health and well-being of our community and our animals, and to protect our environment.
Getting a new pet can be a very exciting time, but it’s a decision which needs to be taken very seriously. After all, it is a lifelong commitment.
Under local law, pet owners have an obligation to keep their dog under effective control at all times.
This means:
If a dog escapes from its yard or runs off, any damage or harm it causes is ultimately the owner’s responsibility.
There are four free off-leash areas in the Central Highlands that can be accessed 24/7:
These are specific areas where dogs can legally be exercised off their lead, although you should always make sure your dog is under control while in these areas.
Maintain a good relationship with your pet and you will ensure your animal lives a happy and healthy life.
For information on how to prepare your pet emergency plan visit the Get Ready Queensland website.
If you are interested in adopting an animal from council please fill out our Application for Adoption form and return to a council office.
Animals are also available for adoption through CQ Pet Rescue, a not-for-profit animal rescue organisation operating within the Central Highlands.
The group of volunteers have a memorandum of understanding with council to foster and find new homes for suitable animals from the local pounds.
Unwanted animals may be surrendered to council. Fees are applicable; however these may be waived under certain circumstances. Each case is judged individually.
To surrender an animal please complete the request for surrender and sale or disposal of an animal form and return to your local council office.
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