Published Wednesday, 17 January, 2007 at 03:47 PM
Minister for State Development, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel
CALLS FOR OWNERS TO REMEMBER THEIR PET RESPONSIBILITIES THESE HOLIDAYS
Following recent reports of animals being left without food, water, or shade from the summer heat, Acting Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries John Mickel has called on all animal owners to remember their responsibility this holiday period – including over the upcoming Australia Day long weekend.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) is the peak government body responsible for animal welfare with staff working throughout the State to ensure all animals receive appropriate care and protection.
Mr Mickel said the hectic nature of December and January means animals can be forgotten and neglected – an oversight which can have serious health consequences for animals and serious legal consequences for owners.
“The message to holiday-makers before they leave home this Australia Day weekend is clear – don’t forget your toothbrush and don’t forget your pets,” he said.
“Through the Animal Welfare Program, DPI&F carries out vital work across Queensland, ranging from investigations and prosecutions, to education and policy development.
“Under the Animal Care and Protection Act, all animal owners have a clear duty of care to look after their animals at all times of the year – whether it’s Christmas, school holidays or during a busy week at work”.
“Fortunately, there are a range of options available for pet owners over the holiday period.
“It’s easy to arrange for a friend or neighbour to care for your animals, employ a pet minder, use a boarding kennel or even take your pets on holiday with you,” Mr Mickel said.
For more information about holiday accommodation where pets are welcome ring the RACQ on 131905 for information on pet-friendly venues or visit the RACQ website - go to ‘Trip Planner’ then ‘Places to Stay’ and select ‘pets allowed’ under ‘Facilities.’
To report a suspected animal welfare incident, or to find out more about the vital work DPI&F Animal Welfare program in doing throughout Queensland, visit www.qld.gov.au/animalwelfare or call 13 25 23.
DPI&F contact: Caroline Dalton 323 93120
Ministerial contact: Chris Brown 3224 7349
17 January 2007
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) is the peak government body responsible for animal welfare with staff working throughout the State to ensure all animals receive appropriate care and protection.
Mr Mickel said the hectic nature of December and January means animals can be forgotten and neglected – an oversight which can have serious health consequences for animals and serious legal consequences for owners.
“The message to holiday-makers before they leave home this Australia Day weekend is clear – don’t forget your toothbrush and don’t forget your pets,” he said.
“Through the Animal Welfare Program, DPI&F carries out vital work across Queensland, ranging from investigations and prosecutions, to education and policy development.
“Under the Animal Care and Protection Act, all animal owners have a clear duty of care to look after their animals at all times of the year – whether it’s Christmas, school holidays or during a busy week at work”.
“Fortunately, there are a range of options available for pet owners over the holiday period.
“It’s easy to arrange for a friend or neighbour to care for your animals, employ a pet minder, use a boarding kennel or even take your pets on holiday with you,” Mr Mickel said.
For more information about holiday accommodation where pets are welcome ring the RACQ on 131905 for information on pet-friendly venues or visit the RACQ website - go to ‘Trip Planner’ then ‘Places to Stay’ and select ‘pets allowed’ under ‘Facilities.’
To report a suspected animal welfare incident, or to find out more about the vital work DPI&F Animal Welfare program in doing throughout Queensland, visit www.qld.gov.au/animalwelfare or call 13 25 23.
DPI&F contact: Caroline Dalton 323 93120
Ministerial contact: Chris Brown 3224 7349
17 January 2007