From 1 October 2025, Campaspe Shire Council will change its animal shelter and pound service to a pound-only service.
Since the decision was made in August 2024 to make this change, about 900 animals have been surrendered or impounded at the shelter. Council has partnered with 21 rehoming groups, and 226 of these animals have been transferred to these groups. Additionally, 314 animals have been rehomed to the public, and 200 have been returned to their owners. Unfortunately, 210 animals were deemed unsuitable for rehoming.
Animals at the pound will only be euthanised for specific reasons which must be determined by a qualified vet, such as unsuitable temperament, disease, injury, or age. Council will ensure that any future partnerships with animal rehoming providers include provisions to avoid unnecessary euthanasia.
For animals registered with Council, a new policy has been in place since 1 July 2025. If your pet is impounded, you can reclaim it for free on the first day of impoundment. The facility's operating hours have been extended to give pet owners more time to reclaim their pets. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 4:30pm; Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 12 noon; and on public holidays from 10am to 12 noon (closed Christmas Day, Easter Weekend and ANZAC Day).
Council has also frozen pet registration fees for the 2025/26 financial year, and there is a new registration class that allows free initial registration for pets under 12 months old.
