Now, Greater Shepparton City Council has responded.
“Overall, there hasn’t been an increase since last year,” council manager of environment Sharon Terry said.
“However, we have seen a slight increase in relation to dogs being surrendered by their owners, more of whom are telling us they are surrendering them due to cost-of-living pressures.”
According to statistics provided by the Greater Shepparton Animal Shelter, 697 dogs and 1340 cats were admitted in 2023-2024, with 325 cats and 166 dogs surrendered to council.
In addition, 50 cats and four dogs were found to be collected from roadsides after being hit by vehicles.
“These figures really highlight why there is a legislative requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to keep dogs and cats confined to their owners’ premise at all times.” Ms Terry said.
“It is heartbreaking for both owners and staff to have to collect injured or deceased animals.”
While the pain of being parted from a pet, voluntarily or involuntary, cannot be easily erased, second chances for lost or surrendered animals are always available.
Under the Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds, there is a mandatory code under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 that all animals must be vaccinated and serve an eight-day quarantine period before they are ready for rehoming.
Before rehoming occurs, owners are encouraged to find their pets and bring them home.
If anyone is missing their beloved family members, please contact the animal shelter and report the animal missing.
All dogs and cats over the age of three months must be registered with council each year.
Registering dogs and cats with council ensures that the owner’s registration details and microchip details are up to date, which greatly assists council in notifying owners if their pet is found.
If you or anyone you know might have a missing animal, please visit greatershepparton.com.au/animals-environment-and-waste/animals/animal-shelter/lost-pets
Council always has a number of wonderful pets ready for adoption.
To find out more about the selection of pets ready for a new home, visit greatershepparton.com.au/animals-environment-and-waste/animals/animal-shelter/pet-adoption/pets-for-adoption
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