Frequently asked questions
See below for some of the frequently asked questions regarding Mildura Loves Pets. If you have a question that is not covered here, you can reach out to our Community Liaison Officer, Hayley.
Information on the project
What can RSPCA Victoria help me with?
Over the last 18 months the Mildura Loves Pets team have offered services such as vaccinations, desexing and microchipping for dogs and cats. Vouchers for these services are not currently available, however if you need assistance or advice to care for your animals please contact our Community Liaison Officer, Hayley.
If I ask for help, will RSPCA Victoria take my pet from me?
RSPCA Victoria is here to support people and their pets in Mildura. That means providing assistance with dog vaccinations and microchipping. Similarly, we can assist with food, flea and worm treatment, emergency boarding and shelter.
Our primary goal is to help people keep their pets happy and healthy for the duration of their lifetime. We do not want to take loved animals from their homes. Rather, we are here to provide the necessary support so that owners can retain their pets whilst ensuring good animal welfare outcomes.
We are here to help.
However, where a breach of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is suspected, the matter will be referred to an authorised officer to investigate.
Will my privacy be protected?
You can view RSPCA Victoria’s privacy policy here.
Eligibility requirements
Do I have to be a resident in Mildura to get assistance for my pet?
Yes, you have to be a registered resident of Mildura to receive assistance for your pet.
However, if you are not a registered resident but still require support for your pets, please reach out and we will do our best to provide assistance.
I don’t have a concession card - can I still get assistance for my pet?
You do not require a concession card to get assistance for your pet. We are here to help all the residents of Mildura.
How old do I need to be before I can get assistance for my pet?
There is no age restriction for pet owners requiring assistance for their animal. Above all, we are here to provide assistance to help as many people (and their animals) as possible.
Cruelty and reporting cruelty
What is animal cruelty?
In Victoria, animal cruelty is defined by law under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. Broadly, there are two categories of animal cruelty our RSPCA Inspectors investigate.
- Deliberate cruelty – includes beating, overworking, abusing, wounding or carrying out procedures such as ear cropping or tail docking.
- Neglect – includes not providing the basics such as clean water, food or shelter. It is also considered neglect if an owner fails to take their sick or injured animal to the vet.
RSPCA Victoria is working in Mildura to provide direct support to people in the community.
If you know somebody in Mildura who needs a hand caring for their animals, please contact our local Community Liaison Officer.
On the other hand, if you believe animal cruelty is occurring, you can report it to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate online or by phone. If you believe an animal’s life is at immediate risk, please phone us on (03) 9224 2222 to make your report.
I am concerned about an animal, what should I do?
If you know somebody in Mildura who needs a hand caring for their animals, please contact our local Community Liaison Officer.
However, if animal cruelty is occurring, you can report it to RSPCA Victoria online or by phone (03) 9224 2222 to report a life-threatening case immediately.
Vaccinations
My dog has had their annual vaccination, do they need a separate vaccination for parvovirus?
No – if your dog has had their normal annual vaccination (C3 or C5) then this is sufficient protection. The vaccine for dogs that is offered as part of this project is not specific only to parvovirus, it is the C3 core vaccine. If you are unsure, speak with your vet about your pet’s vaccination history and ongoing requirements.
My cat has had their annual vaccination, do they need a separate vaccination for panleukopenia?
No – if your cat has had their normal annual vaccination (F3) then this is sufficient protection. The vaccine for cats that is offered as part of this project is not specific only to panleukopenia, it is the F3 core vaccine. If you are unsure, speak with your vet about your pet’s vaccination history and ongoing requirements.
Caring for your pet
What is good animal welfare?
RSPCA Victoria recommends five aspects of animal welfare are considered to ensure the health and wellbeing of every pet.
- Nutrition – Animals need clean drinking water readily available and access to the proper amount of nutritious food to help them grow and stay strong and healthy.
- Environment – Animals need places to shelter from the wind, rain and heat. The shelter should be clean and provide somewhere for the animal to rest. Moreover, the shelter should be large enough that the animal can move around freely inside it.
- Health – Animals should visit a vet at least once a year for a check-up and to receive vaccinations against a range of infectious diseases. In addition, they should also visit a vet any time they show any signs of pain, injury or illness.
- Behaviour – Animals should be able to exercise regularly and enjoy physical and mental stimulation through toys and games. Similarly, enrichment at home is a great way to keep pets entertained.
- Mental health – Most animals need company to feel safe and secure – this could be company with other animals or humans.
Desexing – busting the myths
Why should I desex my cat?
Desexing is an important part of responsible cat ownership and has many benefits. Desexing your cat can reduce:
- Unwanted pregnancies and litters of kittens.
- The likelihood of developing certain diseases or cancers.
- Unwanted behaviour associated with mating season – such as yowling and crying at night.
- The desire to roam, protecting them against car accidents, cat fights and getting lost.
- Likelihood of spraying urine.
- Aggressive behaviour.
Why should I desex my dog?
Getting your dog desexed is an important part of responsible pet ownership and has many benefits. Desexing your dog can reduce:
- Unwanted pregnancies and litters of puppies.
- The likelihood of developing certain diseases or cancers.
- Unwanted behaviour associated with mating season – such as mounting or running away to seek out a mate.
- Likelihood of marking their scent with urine.
Will desexing my cat/dog change their personality?
Do not worry! Desexing is a simple procedure and will not change the personality of your dog or cat. However, it will reduce some unwanted behaviours like mounting, fighting or spraying.