What are my legal obligations?

In NSW animal owners and carers have an obligation under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTA) to provide food, water, shelter and veterinary care to their animals. In addition the owners of some animals must meet prescribed standards of care under POCTA, the Exhibited Animals Protection Act 1986 and the Animal Research Act 1985.

Am I allowed to leave home to transport my dog, cat or other companion animal?

You may leave home to transport a dog, cat or other companion animal:

• to meet your legal obligations to care for an animal and ensure its welfare, ( eg services for pet grooming )
• for your exercise, provided you stay in your local area,
• to sell or transfer physical ownership of an animal,
• to relinquish your animal to a shelter or pound.

Reasons for leaving home to care for an animal and ensure its welfare includes:

• to obtain veterinary treatment for your pet
• to return your pet to its original location after obtaining the treatment referred to above
• to relocate your pet that cannot be provided with adequate feed, shelter or care to a place where these can be provided
• to surrender your pet to an animal welfare organisation, licensed fauna rehabilitation group or pound
• to transfer ownership of pet animals

Can I infect the animals I care for, or be infected by them?

The current spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission.

Recent research suggests cats and ferrets are more susceptible to infection. However, to date, there is no evidence that animals have contributed to the spread of the disease, and therefore there is no justification in taking measures against animals which may compromise their welfare.

When handling and caring for animals, basic hygiene measures should always be implemented. This includes hand washing before and after being around or handling animals, their food, or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing, licking or sharing food.

More information can be found by visiting the OIE website.

Source of this information can be read here

‍https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/home/covid-19/covid-19-animal-care

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