In less than a year, the Port Macquarie Animal Shelter has found 300 unclaimed animals loving homes and a second chance.
The shelter commenced operations under Council's management on Sunday 1 November, 2020, setting out to return lost animals to their owners and educate the community on responsible pet ownership.
In conjunction with this work, the shelter has also given unclaimed, stray and surrendered animals the chance for a new life, taking every opportunity to rehome the animals that find their way to the facility.
The milestone 300th adoptee, Monday the Torti cat, calls attention to the adoration the team have for their work and each life that comes under their care.
Emmalee Andrew, the shelter's team leader recalls Monday's story vividly, sharing that the cat was named after the day of the week she was brought in.
"Monday was brought in after she was found wandering around a house that was recently vacated. We assume she was left behind because she was staying close to the home, she was incredibly friendly and definitely a domesticated cat.
"After Monday's 8 day impound stay, a couple who had recently lost their family pet enquired almost immediately. They were the perfect fit for her, so she's now found a new home with them at their farm in Wauchope," said Emmalee.
Monday's story is just one of 300 adoption tales that have allowed the shelter's team to influence and create a positive mind shift towards responsible pet ownership.
When a pet is found and is microchipped and registered, in most cases Council's Rangers will be able to take the animal directly to home to their owners.
"Our primary aim is to reunite pets, and ensure all owners are educated on taking the best care of their pets. Where this isn't possible, we're glad each pet is given a second chance with a new family," said Emmalee.
"When you adopt from us, you're getting an animal that's desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and registered. We make sure all new pet owners are equipped with the knowledge and means to provide the best care. You're not just giving one animal a home, you're helping us help others by promoting responsible pet ownership," she said.
The Port Macquarie Animal Shelter uses their Facebook page to bring attention to lost, stray and surrendered animals in the hopes of reuniting them with their owners in the first instance, or finding them a new home.
