Note. This Part generally applies in relation to companion animals that are seized under the authority of this Act or that otherwise end up at council pounds. The requirements and procedures of this Part are not intended to apply to lost or injured animals that are taken by members of the public to animal welfare organisations (such as the RSPCA) or to a vet merely so that they can be treated or reunited with their owners. The Part also does not apply to animals that are surrendered to animal welfare organisations (unless the organisation also operates as a council pound).

If companion animals (other than those seized under the authority of this Act) end up at a council pound (eg by being surrendered or abandoned), they may be dealt with by the pound operator under this Part.