Do councils have to have an after hours service for stray cats and dogs?
The Companion Animals Act does not require a council to have an “after hours” service for accepting cats and dogs. Again, this is a discretionary matter for council to determine. However, the majority of local councils do have some form of general “after hours” contact for their rangers. What “after hours” arrangements council has, and when and how they operate, again should be included in a council management plan. Councils should ensure that local vets, animal welfare organisations and other relevant groups are informed of what is in their plan. Cheques cannot be accepted in person at the Animal Care Facility. Council accepts all credit cards except American Express.
