Vets visited Central Desert Shire communities and several major outstations, with most locations receiving repeat visits. During these visits dogs were treated for internal and external parasites, de-sexed (with the owner’s consent) or put down (with the owner’s consent). Vets were also asked to support local participation in animal management and promote education about animal management.
During 2008-09 approximately 3,000 treatments for internal and external parasites were administered. Over 500 dogs were de-sexed either through surgery or through chemical sterilisation and approximately 500 dogs were put down.
During the year the Council adopted a ‘two dog per household’ policy. There has been widespread acceptance of this policy, with many residents taking positive steps to reduce their dog numbers and realise the benefits of improved dog health. Some people, however, are happier to have their number of dogs reduce through natural causes and the passage of time.