Deputy Mayor Kellie Marsh and Mayor Chris Homer walk German shepherds Navy and Nora, who are available for adoption. Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
Shellharbour City Council’s lost dogs facility is nearing capacity, prompting a callout to dog lovers to consider adoption.
It’s in contrast to council’s first quarter of the year, when it was able to return or rehome 100 per cent of dogs in its care.
Council cares for stray and lost dogs, with the aim to always reunite pets with their families.
However, when dogs aren’t claimed, council works with the community and rehoming agencies to find the dogs a safe, loving forever home.
Mayor Chris Homer said council’s facility had almost reached capacity, with many dogs ready to be adopted.
“These are healthy, friendly dogs that simply need a second chance,” Cr Homer said.
“We know how much of a difference responsible pet ownership makes.
“When dogs are microchipped and registered, they’re more likely to be reunited with their families quickly and we see that success every day.”
It’s Lost Dog Registry, launched earlier this year, gives the public real-time access to dogs available in council’s care.
It comes as part of council’s broader approach to promoting responsible pet ownership, reducing the time animals spend in holding and easing pressure on the facility.
Other initiatives by council included its Woofstock dog-focused festival in June, where it allowed visitors to get up close to dogs available for adoption.
“Responsible pet ownership means more than just caring for your own animal, it means helping others too,” Cr Homer said.
“If you’ve been thinking about adding a dog to your family, now is a great time to adopt.”
Council’s service also provides potential adopters the option to trial the dog to ensure the pet is the right match for the family, and vice versa, before making a lifelong commitment.
Last month, in council’s quarterly review of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2024-2025, it reported it had returned or rehomed 100 per cent of seized dogs between January and March.
It was among one of many highlighted outcomes from the report.
Other outcomes included providing more than $24,000 in ClubGRANT funding to support 31 community groups and charities, more than 3500 people attending 40 free events during its seniors festival, 172,764 items borrowed from Shellharbour libraries, and 178,508 visits to council pools.
Environmental and infrastructure highlights included $9.4 million spent on building and infrastructure renewal projects, and 4000 native plants added to flying-fox habitats.
“We’re delivering outcomes that make a real difference,” Cr Homer said.
“From reuniting pets with their families to building infrastructure and supporting local events, this report shows the work happening across our city.
“We’re proud to have 97 percent of our planned actions on track.”
See dogs available for adoption or learn more about council’s rehoming program at Shellharbour City Council’s Lost Dog Registry or call (02) 4221 6111.
