Lost and found animals

If you find a dog or cat out wandering, call Council on (03) 5422 0333. 

If the dog or cat has no immediate identification, a ranger can check it for a microchip and if it is microchipped, will be able to make contact with the owner. This will improve the chances of the animal not being impounded and assist with a speedy return to the owner.

Owners may receive warnings or fines. Animals that are not microchipped or currently registered with Council will be impounded. Impound fees will most likely apply to the owner.

Council will do what they can to find the owners of wandering livestock. However, if the owner of the livestock cannot be immediately located, the animal/s will be impounded until the owner is found and identification can be made.

Owners may receive warnings or fines. For impounded animals, impound fees will apply for the return of the livestock.

If you lose your dog or cat, contact Council on (03) 5422 0333. We will record details about your pet, including its colour, gender and breed, along with your name and contact details. This information helps us identify your pet and reunite it with you as quickly as possible if it is found.

If you believe your pet may have been collected or impounded by a Council officer, contact us on (03) 5422 0333. Council will confirm whether your pet has been located or impounded and advise you of the steps required for its release.

Dogs and cats cannot be released unless they are microchipped and registered with Council. If your pet is not microchipped, arrangements will need to be made for microchipping before it can be returned to you. If your pet is not registered, you will need to register the animal before its release. See our Pet Registration page for further information and applicable registration fees.

In some circumstances, Council may make alternative arrangements for the care or impoundment of an animal. This may occur where:

• the animal has been involved in a serious incident, such as an attack or rush
• the health or welfare of the animal is compromised or it requires specialised care
• Council has concerns about the secure confinement of a dog
• a dog has escaped recently or repeatedly
• a cat is subject to a trespass notice
• Council facilities are closed, including weekends and public holidays
• extreme weather conditions, Total Fire Bans or severe or higher fire danger ratings apply
• the current owner cannot be identified or readily contacted.

Always contact Council on (03) 5422 0333 regarding a lost or impounded dog or cat. We will advise you of your animal's location and the appropriate process for collection or release.

Owners are responsible for any veterinary costs incurred where an animal requires treatment. Impound and other applicable fees may also apply, and warnings or infringements may be issued depending on the circumstances.

If you think your livestock has been impounded by a ranger, call us on (03) 5422 0333. Once it has been decided that your livestock is in the pound, we will make arrangements to release the animal to you.

You are liable for transport fees and any vet fees if your livestock needs to be treated by a vet. Warnings or fines may also apply. Impound fees will apply.