Is desexing mandatory for cats and dogs? Preventing unwanted/unplanned pregnancies through desexing is an essential part of responsible companion animal ownership. RSPCA Australia advocates the mandatory desexing...
Are curfews for domestic cats mandatory? The following table shows details about curfews for domestic cats in each state or territory. The information presented here is...
What is the RSPCA’s view on breed-specific legislation? Breed specific legislation (BSL) consists of legal restrictions on the importation, sale, keeping and rehoming of certain types of dogs...
Are there laws that require companion animal breeders to meet certain standards of care? Laws relating to the welfare of animals vary in different states. In some states, companion animal breeders have to be...
Is it legal to sell exotic animals such as monkeys or tigers as pets in Australia? RSPCA Australia receives many enquiries about exotic animals such as monkeys, tigers and lions for sale over the internet. These animals...
Is eating cats or dogs legal? RSPCA Australia is opposed to the use of dogs and cats for fur or food as these animals have a...
Is it legal to have unrestrained dogs on ute trays or other open vehicles? As outlined in the table below, legislation in all Australian states and territories specifically prohibit people from transporting dogs unrestrained...
Is the tail docking of dogs legal in Australia? In 2004, the cosmetic tail docking of dogs was banned nationwide. This means that a veterinary surgeon must not dock...
Is the use of electronic dog collars legal? The RSPCA is opposed to the use of any electronically activated devices which deliver electric shocks (e.g., anti-barking collars, invisible...
Is it legal to keep native animals as pets? The keeping of wildlife as pets is subject to specific licensing requirements – please contact your State or Territory government...
Is it mandatory to register domestic dogs and cats? The information presented here is not intended to be relied on for legal advice and you should seek advice from...
Is there legislation relating to the ownership of specific breeds of dog? Legislation about dog breeds is commonly known as breed-specific legislation. This controls the importation and requirements for keeping some specific...
Is microchipping mandatory for cats and dogs? A microchip is a small rice-grain sized chip that is placed just below the skin in the back of the...
What laws are necessary to stop puppy farming? Puppy farming is considered to be a major animal welfare issue in Australia. The RSPCA has dedicated considerable time and...