DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRY AND FISHERIES
ANIMAL WELFARE
Buying a pet this Christmas?
Pets are for life . . . not just for Christmas.
Before you buy a pet this Christmas, make sure you are able to take care of it long term and
have considered which pet is best for you.
Ask yourself . . .
1. Why do you want a pet?
2. Do you have time, space and energy for a pet?
3. What type of pet is suitable for you, your lifestyle, property and family?
4. Can you afford the ongoing costs such as vet care, registration and food?
A pet can be a great addition to any family, as long as you can meet your responsibilities as a
pet owner.
Don’t forget us in your holiday plans.
If you are going away this Christmas, who will be looking after your pet?
Unfortunately many animals are left to roam and fend for themselves, while others suffer
from lack of food, water and basic care.
Even if you leave sufficient food and water, unsupervised pets are at risk of serious injury.
Consider boarding kennels, house sitters, professional home care and reliable friends or
neighbours.
It’s your responsibility to provide adequate care for your pets, even while you are on
holidays. If you don’t, you could be fined up to $11,000 under the Animal Welfare Act.
For more information visit www.animalwelfare.nt.gov.au or contact Animal Welfare on 1300 720 386
DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRY AND FISHERIES
Dedicating time to your pet
Different pets require different levels of care and attention. When choosing a pet, consider how
much time you are able to dedicate to them each day. Ask yourself, is the type of pet and breed you
are interested in going to require more time than you can provide? On a day-to-day basis, pets need
you to allow time for:
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food and water
exercise, attention and play
grooming
cleaning their living environment
training.
Ensuring your home is suitable
Carefully consider the suitability of your home now and in the future, for the type of animal you wish
to purchase. Do you live in rental or shared accommodation? Ensure you discuss your intention to
purchase a pet with your landlord and housemates before committing.
Consider the following:
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Is your yard secure and large enough?
Are you prepared for a puppy digging up your garden?
Will the pet be an indoor or outdoor pet, or both?
Can you provide shelter from rain and heat for your pet whilst outdoors?
Is anyone living with you allergic to certain animals?
If you already have a pet, how will they co-habitat with another pet?
The right pet for you
When choosing the right pet for you, you need to be honest about the characteristics you require to
fit your lifestyle:
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Do you have enough time or energy for a dog that requires walking twice a day?
Would you have time to ride your horse every day?
Do any members of the household have allergies?
Do you live in a small apartment, or a house with a large back yard?
Do you have young children?
Your duty of care
Pets can be a great addition to you or your family, however owning a pet is also a commitment that
should not be taken lightly. Under the Animal Welfare Act, pet owners have a duty of care to their
pets. Failure to meet the duty of care owed to an animal may constitute an offence and the
owner could face penalties for failing to provide the minimum level of care.
For more information visit www.animalwelfare.nt.gov.au or contact Animal Welfare on 1300 720 386