About dogs and cats

Microchipping is mandatory for all:

• dogs and cats born after 1 July 2009 before they reach 12 weeks of age (but not before they reach 8 weeks of age)
• dogs and cats born before 1 July 2009 that have changed ownership (i.e. have been either sold or given away)
• declared regulated dogs (i.e. declared dangerous dogs and declared menacing dogs).

All cats and dogs 12 weeks and older must be registered with Council, then have their registration renewed every 12 months.

De-sexing is encouraged, but not compulsory. Discounted registration fee applies for de-sexed dogs and cats.

Find out more about microchipping, registering and desexing your pet.

In the Redlands you can keep up to 2 dogs or 2 cats per residence without a permit. A third dog or cat permit is available where compassionate grounds exist for granting the approval, however, you will need to apply for a Third Animal Permit(PDF, 192KB).

In accordance with Council’s Subordinate Local Law 2 - Animal Management, you must apply for additional permits if you wish to:

• operate a pet shop
• operate a cattery
• operate a dog kennel.

Please contact us to verify the permit conditions that may apply to you in these instances.

For permits relating to animals other than dogs and cats, see the birds and other animals page.

Dog barking problems

Local Law 2 - Animal Management allows Council to take action against an owner if an animal causes an unlawful environmental nuisance.

• Help for neighbours – find out what you can do to get help with a barking dog in the neighbourhood.
• Help for pet owners – get tips on how to reduce dog barking problems.

Dangerous, menacing and regulated dogs

Learn how a dog can be declared dangerous or menacing and which dog breeds are prohibited in the Redlands.

Wandering dogs and cats can cause traffic accidents, attack people and harm local wildlife. It is a Council requirement to:

• contain your dog or cat securely on your premises
• keep your dog restrained when in the car.

Stray dogs or cats will be sent to the Redland animal shelter where they will be held for a short period. We display all impounded dogs and cats online.

Protecting wildlife

Find out how to create shelters for your cat or dog and keep wildlife safe.

Council has set up special areas in parks across the Redlands so your dog can run around leash-free, without attracting a fine.

Most off-leash areas have:

• fencing
• water
• bins to dispose of dog droppings
• shaded areas
• seating.

While using off-leash areas, dog owners must follow the conditions displayed on site and be able to control the dog with voice commands.

Please be aware that koalas may use these areas. Check for koalas before removing your dog's leash.

Find your nearest dog park or off-leash area.

Dogs are prohibited in a number of public places in Redland City – known as animal control areas. Prohibitions may apply at all times or at specified times.

View prohibited dog areas.

Ticks are parasites that feed on animal and human blood. Paralysis ticks (Ixodes holocyclus) are the most common type of tick in the Redlands and can be found in your backyard, parks and bushland.

Many animals are infested each year and this can often result in illness or death.

Although paralysis ticks can occur year round, their peak period is spring and summer when warm weather combines with periods of rain.

How to prevent ticks

• Keep your pets away from known tick habitats.
• Check your pet (and yourself) regularly – run your fingers over the whole body of the animal and investigate any unusual lumps.
• Discuss appropriate anti-tick medication with your veterinarian – there are a number of tick control products on the market.

Please consult your local veterinarian for further advice on ticks.