Local families seeking their fur-ever match need look no further, with dozens of health-checked and adoption-ready cats and dogs awaiting their new homes at Townsville City Council's Animal Care and Adoption Centre.
Pooches ranging from Jack Russell-cross Jelly Bean, whose favourite pastimes are zoomies and cuddles, to gentle girl Gretel – a Staffy-cross – are amongst the hounds on offer.
In terms of feline friends, glamour queen Latifa is looking to live a life of luxury with a like-minded lad or lady whilst sweet sisters, Four Leaf Clover and Fortune Cookie, are on the scout for a home and heart to fill together.
Division 2 Councillor Brodie Phillips urged Townsville families to stop by the centre as their first port of call when looking for a new pet.
"As they say, dogs are truly man's best friend and I know personally that my two border collies bring so much fun and joy to my family's life," Cr Phillips said.
"Whether you're looking for a new dog – or a cat – consider adopting before buying, as it is one way you can truly change a life that may not have started out the easiest.
"Council's ACAC team are animal adoption experts, and before any of our animals become available, they go through very thorough checks so you can be sure you are getting a great companion.
"All animals are desexed, wormed, treated with flea and tick prevention, vet-checked, microchipped and up to date with their vaccinations."
ACAC animal care officer Mackenzie Garnett said the pets housed at the facility were given the best care possible whilst waiting to meet their forever families.
"Like people, every cat and dog we meet are all so different in terms of their personality and temperament," Ms Garnett said.
"A big part of what we do here, outside of meeting their general needs and health care, is really getting to know each animal and giving them the best quality of life we can.
"We try to do this through exercise, enrichment, games and activities, like our new agility course that the dogs have been loving and has been another way to showcase their abilities in a different environment.
"By doing this, when we have prospective new owners come to visit for meet and greets, we are able to give them insight into what each dog or cat are really like and advice as to how they might fit into each family.
"I would encourage anyone looking for a new family member to come and meet the lovely pups and cats that we have available."
Through the month of September, ACAC will be offering a 50 per cent discount on cat and dog adoptions.
