Thanks to ABC News Online for this Australian update!

Dog, cat ownership laws to be toughened

There will be tougher conditions on dog and cat ownership in the ACT under proposed new laws.

The planned legislation would limit cat ownership to three and eventually make microchipping compulsory for all dogs.

The compulsory age for cat desexing would be reduced from six to three months.

Dogs seized after escaping from their homes and causing problems will not be returned until owners meet certain conditions.

The Government also plans to offer life-time dog registration to current owners at the cost of the annual renewal fee and says the aim of the new regime is to promote responsible pet ownership.

The proposed new laws are now open for public comment.