Council recognises Four Paws’ vital support in local animal welfare

Published on 20 August 2025

Council has formally acknowledged the outstanding contribution made by local organisation Four Paws Adoption & Education Inc., whose generous donation of $30,000 has delivered lasting benefits for the region’s animal management.

The funding supported a desexing voucher program that ran from August 2024 to June 2025, helping local pet owners with the costs of desexing their cats and dogs.

In total, the program enabled 136 dogs and 14 cats to be desexed, assisting in reducing the number of unwanted animals in the Shire and easing pressure on Council’s animal shelter.

Development and Environment Portfolio Co-Lead, Councillor Wade Rothery, said Four Paws’ commitment to animal welfare has left a positive legacy for the Livingstone community.

“This is a fantastic example of how community organisations can make a real difference,” Cr Rothery said.

“Thanks to Four Paws’ generosity, more than 150 pets in our Shire have been desexed, reducing the risk of unwanted litters and giving families the opportunity to care for their animals responsibly.

“Their support has not only benefited pet owners, but also the wider community by helping ease the pressure on Council’s animal management services.”

Eligibility criteria ensured the program was accessible to registered pet owners across the Shire, with a maximum of two vouchers per household redeemable at local veterinary clinics. Each voucher provided up to $200 in assistance toward desexing costs.

Council has since allocated a further $20,000 in the 2025/26 Budget to continue the program, recognising the positive outcomes delivered in partnership with Four Paws.

“Although Four Paws has now ceased its operations, Council is proud to carry this initiative forward and build on the strong foundation set by the not-for-profit community organisation,” Cr Rothery said.

“By supporting responsible pet ownership, we’re helping to create a more sustainable and caring community.”

For more information on the desexing subsidy and how to apply, residents are encouraged to visit: https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/living-here/my-property/animals-and-pets