Thousands of abandoned pets will have a brighter future thanks to a new allocation of funding by the State Government to support animal shelters.
In the 2019-20 State Budget, $600,000 is allocated over three years for six companion animal shelters that rescue, care and shelter abandoned cats and dogs.
The funding will assist with operational expenses and help reduce the threat to indigenous wildlife from strays.
The Companion Animals Shelters funding program supports the Cat Act 2011 and the Dog Act 1976, which require pet owners to take responsible care of their animals.
Dogs and cats are required to be microchipped to allow ready identification of their owners.
The program has been funded $200,000 per annum since 2012 and demonstrates the State Government's ongoing commitment to animal welfare.
As stated by Local Government Minister David Templeman:
"The State Government recognises the important role animal shelters play in providing a safe and caring environment for abused or neglected animals, ensuring they are micro-chipped, sterilised and vaccinated before they are rehomed.
"Shelters such as the Dogs' Refuge Home in Shenton Park rehome over 1,000 dogs per year and work with local governments and other rescue groups to bring in unwanted dogs from around the State.
"Animal shelters in Western Australia provide a stable adoption environment for pets and promote responsible pet ownership.
"This funding will help them continue their great work."
Companion Animal Shelters funding program recipients
- Dog's Refuge Home (WA) - $75,000 per year
- Cat Welfare Society Inc - $75,000 per year
- K9 Rescue Group - $12,500 per year
- Animal Protection Society of WA Inc. - $12,500 per year
- Swan Animal Haven - $12,500 per year
- Saving Animals from Euthanasia (SAFE), State-wide - $12,500 per year
