Lost and impounded animals
For the vast majority of us our dogs and cats are our friends and companions. They are much loved members of our families and are well looked after. However, there are a small number of people who do not care for their animals responsibly. These animals often become problems for the community.
If you have lost your pet, have found someone else’s pet or want to adopt a pound animal, please explore the FAQ’s below to find out more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my animal is impounded?
If your animal has been found by the Shire Ranger, it will be taken to the Council’s Animal Pound, which is located within the grounds of the Materials Recycling Facility on the Glen Logan Road. Details of current animals Lost & impounded that owners have not been located for are available on Council's Facebook page or contact the Council Ranger on (02) 6340 2052.
If your animal is microchipped and registered, the following process will apply:
- The animal’s microchip will be scanned.
- Council will contact you (in writing and by telephone) to advise that we have your animal.
- You will have to pay Council impounding fees before the animal is released.
- Council will impound the animal for a period of 7 days, before it will be rehomed.
If your animal is not microchipped and registered, the following process will apply:
- Council will impound the animal for a period of 7 days, before it will be rehomed.
- You can claim the animal within this period, but you must verify that you are the owner.
- The animal must be microchipped and registered before release.
- You will have to pay Council impounding fees before the animal is released.
How can I collect an impounded animal?
If Council has not already contacted you and you wish to collect an impounded animal, you will need to arrange this by speaking to Cowra Ranger Services on (02) 6340 2052.
What costs are involved if my animal is impounded?
If your animal is microchipped and registered, you will still be required to pay an impounding fee and sustenance provided per day before your animal can be released. The impounding fee for a cat or dog starts at $17.25 per day plus sustenance starts at $8.00 per day that the animal has been impounded (refer to the Revenue Policy 2023/2024 for all fees and charges)
If your animal is not microchipped and registered, you will need to arrange for this to occur before your animal can be released. Microchipping can cost as little as $44.00.
* From 1 July 2021, the NSW Government introduced free lifetime registration for rescue pets adopted from council pounds, animal shelters and rehoming organisations.
2023-2024 Registration and Permit fees can be found here.
I have found a stray animal. What should I do?
If you have found a stray animal, you should contact Cowra Ranger Services on (02) 6340 2052.
I would like to adopt a pound animal. What is the process?
Cowra Council’s Adopt a Pound Pet Program aims to reduce the euthanasia of animals that are brought to the pound.
If you are interested in viewing an impounded animal or adopting an animal, you should contact Cowra Ranger Services on (02) 6340 2052.
Details about the program and current animals available for rehoming are located on the Adopt a Pound Pet page.
Our latest lost and found animals will be added here on Council's Facebook page.