Animal Aid in Bairnsdale is calling on the East Gippsland community to step up as foster carers to help care for dogs in need.
In recent weeks, the shelter has experienced an unprecedented influx of animals, with more dogs arriving than it can accommodate. This increase has placed significant pressure on resources, making community support more important than ever.
"By opening your home temporarily, you are giving a dog the chance to feel safe, loved, and ready for their forever home," said Karly Turner, Manager at Animal Aid.
Fostering can be short or long term, depending on what suits the foster carer. Animal Aid provides support, advice, and covers essential costs such as food and veterinary care. All foster carers need to provide is a safe environment and plenty of love.
East Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr John White, encouraged the community to step up and support and highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership.
"Animal Aid and our Community Laws Officers do incredible work to ensure animals in our region are safe and well cared for. By fostering, you're not only helping an animal in need - you're supporting the whole system that keeps our pets and community safe," John said.
He added: "The most important thing you can do is ensure your pets are microchipped, registered, desexed, and well cared for to reduce the number of animals entering shelters. Council is committed to supporting Animal Aid in Bairnsdale and promoting responsible pet ownership so that fewer animals find themselves in crisis situations."
Behind the scenes, Council's Community Laws team plays a frontline role in promoting and protecting animals across the shire.
"Our team is often the first point of contact for vulnerable animals. We work hand-in-hand with Animal Aid to make sure every animal receives the care it deserves," said Nicole Guns, Senior Community Laws Officer.
"Our Community Laws Officers (Rangers) are all animal lovers at heart. Every day they go beyond the call of duty to make sure animals are safe, cared for, and given the best chance at a new home. They're not just enforcing compliance - they're protecting the welfare of animals and supporting families across East Gippsland."
How the community can help:
- Sign up to become a foster carer through Animal Aid Bairnsdale.
- Spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues who may be able to help.
- Share this call to action on social media and community noticeboards.
"Every additional foster home means one more dog has the chance to thrive outside the shelter environment," Ms Turner added.
If you can help, please contact Animal Aid Bairnsdale today on 5152 1389 or visit www.animalaid.org.au to register your interest.
Together, we can make sure every dog in need has a safe place to stay while waiting for their forever home.
