Rehoming and euthanasia rates

Rehoming impounded animals

Council has a duty to care for animals that are surrendered or impounded.

We work closely with Friends of The Pound to rehome animals where possible. There are times when some animals are unsuitable for rehoming (such as being too aggressive, injured or feral).

By law, dogs declared as a restricted breed, dangerous dog or menacing dog cannot be sold. This includes adoption, rescue or rehoming.

The Companion Animals Act and vet codes and standards guide councils about the euthanasia of animals that are unsuitable for rehoming. Vets and trained Council officers can carry out the procedures.

Guidelines include:

• a companion animal that is surrendered can be euthanised without any holding period in a Council pound
• a companion animal which has been microchipped and has been impounded must be held for a minimum period of 14 days before they can be euthanised
• a companion animal that has not been microchipped and has been impounded must be held for a minimum period of 7 days before they can be euthanised
• there are instances of extreme injuries or animal conditions which necessitate the emergency euthanasia of animals.

Council works with local vets who carry out animal health checks and perform euthanasia procedures when required. 

NSW councils must record details of all animals through NSW Pet Registry. 

Council has very good rehoming rates for companion animals. This is due to the excellent pound facility, rehoming services by the Friends of the Pound, and dedicated, well trained pound and ranger staff.

Euthanasia and rehoming rates for impounded dogs

Tweed Shire Council works with organisations in New South Wales and Queensland to re-home seized or surrendered companion animals. In accordance with Part 7 of the Companion Animals Act 1998, companion animals other than feral animals are only euthanised where they have been assessed by a veterinary practitioner as being so severely injured, so diseased or in such a physical condition that it is cruel to keep the animal alive; or where no other practicable alternative is available. For further information, please view the Companion Animals Act 1998 on the NSW Government website or contact the Office of Local Government on 02 4428 4100.