District Council of Loxton Waikerie works with the Animal Welfare League (AWL) to make sure all animals are cared for until reunited with their owners or rehomed.

Why has my dog been impounded?

A dog is considered 'wandering at large'  if it is found in a public or private place without consent and nobody is exercising effective control. This is an offence under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995.

If a dog is currently registered and wearing a current registration tag, Council makes every effort to contact the registered owner to return their lost dog. You can update your details on your Dogs and Cats Online profile here.

How can I confirm my dog has been impounded?

Once you are aware that your dog is missing, contact Council on 8584 8000.  Alternatively, you can visit Loxton Waikerie Council - Lost and Found Pets Facebook page, where Council posts lost & impounded animals who's owners are uncontactable.

How can I reclaim my dog?

Your dog will be housed at a secured Council pound for a maximum of 72 hours before being surrendered to the AWL in Adelaide.

To reclaim your dog, visit Council at our offices in Loxton and Waikerie between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday.

Our admin team will process release fees and provide you with a release form to present at the Council impound. Please take your Driver's License, or another form of photographic identification.

How much will it cost to reclaim my dog?

You will be required to pay an impounding fee and additional fees to cover the time your pet has spent at the Council's impound.

This includes:

• $60 impoundment fee for the first 24 hours
• $30 per day for care and feeding

All fees must be paid before your dog can be released into your care. You will also be required to register or microchip your dog if it is found it is not.

Will I receive any other fines?

Dog owners who have had a dog previously impounded for 'wandering at large' may receive an expiation (fine) from Council. This will be sent to your home address once you have been reunited with your dog.

What if Council can't find a dogs owner?

Council will endeavour to reunite a lost or impounded dog/s to its owner, however, if we are unsuccessful Council will rehome the dog/s to the Animal Welfare League (AWL).

More information to assist you in being a responsible dog owner can be found on the Dogs and Cats Online webpage.