As part of Griffith City Councils commitment to the ongoing safety and health of companion animals in the community, Council recently installed new signage reminding people to seek veterinary treatment for any sick or injured animals, and not to dump them at the Griffith City Pound and Rehoming Facility.
Chairperson of the Griffith City Pound and Rehoming Facility Working Group, Councillor Doug Curran said recently a severely injured dog was dumped in the after-hours kennels at the pound.
"When staff arrived at the Facility that morning, it was obvious the dog required immediate vet care," said Councillor Curran.
"Council would like to remind the community, if you find or have a sick or injured animal – whether it is yours or one you have found - please seek treatment for the animal," said Councillor Curran.
"Leaving them at the pound is not only a burden on the community, being a cost to council to seek treatment, but is also unfair and inhumane to the animal by allowing it to potentially suffer longer than necessary."
"This highlights an issue with responsible pet ownership and avoiding their obligations by dumping sick and injured animals at the pound," Cr Curran said.
Council staff immediately took the injured dog to the vet clinic for treatment and the incident has been referred to NSW RSPCA for investigation.
Under the NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, there are harsh penalties for those who do not provide veterinary care to animals who require it.
