Subsidised Companion Animal De-Sexing Program Announced
Published on 22 January 2024
The Rural City of Wangaratta is partnering with participating local vet clinics to provide a low-cost desexing program for eligible households across our municipality. The scheme will also encourage responsible pet ownership by ensuring animals are microchipped and registered free of charge at the same time.
The Companion Animal Desexing & Microchipping Program is made possible through the Victoria State Government’s Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program and will be available to those in our community who hold a pension, concession, or health care and low-income card.
The goal is to reduce pet overpopulation by making desexing available and more affordable to pet owners who need it most. The program is expected to be incredibly popular, and funding will be given on a first in first served basis, so residents who meet the criteria are urged to apply quickly.
“We know that the cost of desexing can deter pet owners and it is hoped that this low-cost option can help many people afford the procedure for their cats and dogs,” said Dean Rees, Mayor Rural City of Wangaratta
Council will waive the initial registration fees for non-registered animals and no fines will be issued for unregistered animals, where the pet is desexed and microchipped as part of the program. Ongoing registration fees will apply but will be lower – as applies to all desexed dogs and cats.
The Companion Animal Desexing & Microchipping Program will be available from 1 February until 31 July 2024, or until the funding is exhausted.
Eligible pet owners who wish to take part will need to visit Council’s Customer Service counter to sign up for the program and pay their contribution: $60 for cats and $150 for dogs. They will be issued a voucher, to be presented when booking the procedure at one of four participating vet clinics.
For those with mobility issues who cannot attend the Customer Service counter in person please call 03 5722 0888 to discuss your options.
For full terms and conditions and instructions on how to participate in the program please visit the Rural City of Wangaratta website.
Participating Veterinary Clinics
Dr Paws Wangaratta Veterinary Clinic
Glenrowan Veterinary Clinic
56 Gladstone Street, Glenrowan
Wangaratta Veterinary Clinic
3 Baker Street, Wangaratta
Warby Street Veterinary Clinic
32 Warby Street, Wangaratta