Olive the Maltese Shih Tzu has taken out Cessnock City Council's With Love Comes Responsibility photo competition.
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As part of Local Government Week 2020, Cessnock City Council launched its Instagram account and council's Ranger Team ran a photo competition celebrating responsible pet ownership.
The competition received many fantastic entries featuring some pretty cute cats and dogs.
Using the hashtag #WithLoveComesResponsibility, residents highlighted key actions they take to be responsible pet owners, including walking their dogs on a leash, picking up after their pets and ensuring they are microchipped.
Competition sweetheart Olive was awarded first place, with her owner receiving a $100 pre-paid gift card.
Second place ($75) was given to a shy cat called 'Meow' and third place ($50) was awarded to a cute pup named Ponyo.
Council's principal ranger Jason Mullee said it was great to see the community get involved and talking about responsible pet ownership.
"It's important to have conversations about our pets and how best to look after them," he said.
"It helps educate everyone in the community about what they can do for their pet and more broadly for the benefit of their community.
"A few important steps can really make a difference including microchipping and registering your animal."
Olive's owner, Emily Angwin-Robertson emphasised the importance of doing the right thing when out and about.
"Your pet is a big part of your life and it's important to ensure they are looked after, not only for their benefit but for the community," she said.
"Picking up after your pet is something you have to do, when you're enjoying a walk the last thing you want to see is dog droppings on the footpath."
For more information on pet ownership, visit cessnock.nsw.gov.au/residents/pets-animals.