West Australia Government To Fund For The Protection Of Abandoned Dogs And Cats

The West Australia government has announced that it would provide funding of more than AU$540726.88 over two years to animal shelters. The fund would help in educating, housing and sterilising abandoned pets. However, the estimated amount is likely to extend to cover expenses until 2019.

According to ABC, Roz Robinson, general manager of Perth's Cat Haven, confirmed that the funding has reported a drop of 40 per cent in euthanasia rates and a decrease in the numbers of abandoned kittens. The figures have declined to 500 from the past number which reached almost 4000. However, Karen Rhodes of Dog’s Refuge Home said that the number of abandoned canines have increased.

She said that people from Northam and Broome have mostly sent their dogs to the refuge home. Rhodes shared that the abandonment has occurred due to high costs involved in maintaining the animals and said the funding would help the shelter to break even, reported ABC.

Rhodes further stated that apart from the funds to be provided, they would have to rely on fundraisers and donations to deliver consistent performance as staffing and vet costs have increased. Moreover, they have started taking dogs from all over the state. Meanwhile, Tony Simpson, a member of the local government said the funding would help in identifying feral animals and protect the local flora and fauna from getting destroyed by wild animals.

Simpson reported that the Liberal National Government had made changes to the Dog Act of 1976 and introduced the Cat Act 2011 to encourage responsible ownership of the domestic pets. Both acts involve microchipping and registration of all pet dogs and cats unless the owner is considered to be an approved breeder. This would not only ensure the safety of the community but also keep track on the numbers, according to the WA Media Statements.

Contact writer at priya.shayani@gmail.com.