Top 10 dog breeds on the Fraser Coast

A quick look at the stats for the 2022/23 dog registrations shows there are 1,718 Staffordshire Terriers – closely followed by 1,592 Maltese Terriers and 1,416 Border Collies coming in third.

While Chihuahua maybe a small dog, they still outnumber Bull Arabs, Mastiffs and Rottweilers.

Last year 21,000 dogs registered on the Fraser Coast.

“While the number of animals being surrendered to the Council has increased from last year, the number of animals (cats and dogs) that we have been able to find new homes for has also increased,” Cr Zane O’Keefe said.

“Last year 209 cats and 151 dogs were adopted out compared to 157 cats and 110 dogs finding new homes in 2021.

Animals generate a lot of calls to the Council’s Customer Service Centre.

Last year Council fielded 6,569 calls from residents regarding animals which includes wandering stock as well as cats and dogs.

“The calls cover everything from enquiries to change registration details (445) to calls for information on wandering dogs (269), barking dogs (553), and 708 people calling to be put through to the adoption centre to look for a missing pet or arrange to adopt a pet,” Cr O’Keefe said.

“There were 239 calls regarding dog attacks which is about average.”

The dog attack category also includes dogs rushing fences or exhibiting other aggressive behaviour.

“Having a cat or a dog can provide a lot of enjoyment and companionship but also comes with commitments and responsibilities,” he said.

“That includes ensuring they are registered every year as required under Queensland Government legislation.”

Cr O’Keefe said registering animals had benefits for owners.

“If an animal is found wandering or is taken to the pound, registered dogs can be reunited with their owners very quickly,” he said.

“It is harder to reunite dogs with their owners when they are unregistered or not microchipped, or the information on the microchip is out of date.

“It is important those details are kept up to date with Council and the group which holds your pet’s microchip data.

“And remember, if you have a new dog, registration is free the first time you register your animal in the Fraser Coast region.”

Dog registration fees help pay for animal management, training programs and provides for improved access to dog-friendly open spaces.”

Owners found with an unregistered dog are liable for the $287 fine, as well as the cost of registration.

If you have not reregistered you pet, or your pet’s details have changed, especially if it has passed away, please contact Council on 1300 79 49 29 and talk to a Customer Service Officer.

For more information, visit https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/animals-and-pets