The Tamworth Regional Companion Animal Centre will finally be afforded some relief with the newly named Paws for Life Animal Shelter and Boarding Kennels now officially open.
The new name 'Paws for Life' was voted on by the community in April, and was the winning name of three options.
Paws for Life will provide space for an additional 21 dogs to be housed while they wait to be adopted, freeing up space at the Tamworth Regional Companion Animal Centre which is frequently at capacity.
Tamworth Regional Council determined in late 2022 to take over the operation of the shelter previously known as the 'Heaven Can Wait Animal Shelter and Boarding Kennels' for two years, following news of the independent facility's closure. With over 950 dogs received by the Tamworth Regional Companion Animal Centre each year, far exceeding the available space at the centre. The closure of one of Tamworth's local rescue groups threatened to affect Council's ability to meet its responsibilities under the Companion Animals Act, and risk many deserving dogs missing out on the opportunity to find a new forever home.
Gina Vereker, Director Liveable Communities said that it was a huge relief to have the shelter open.
"This is going to help us tremendously in terms of being able to house and rehome dogs in the Tamworth region", she said. "It has also been great to have so many volunteers sign up to help."
The Paws for Life Animal Shelter and Boarding Kennels is initially open by appointment on weekdays, and between 9am and 2pm on Saturday. These hours will be extended as Council onboards volunteers and additional staff.
The boarding kennels will also open for business in August as these additional staff resources become available.
Residents interested in adopting one of the dogs at the shelter can find profiles of these pets available via the shelter's new Facebook page.
Community members interested in becoming a volunteer at Paws for Life can also give the shelter a call on (02) 6767 5991.
