By SONJA KOREMANS
ANIMAL rehoming rates on the Southern Downs are improving.
Southern Downs Regional Council figures show the region’s pound euthanasia rates have fallen over the past three years.
Mayor Peter Blundell said that in May 2015 no dogs impounded at the Warwick Animal Pound were euthanised, 35 per cent were released, and the remaining 65 per cent were rehomed, in comparison with March 2011, which saw 80 per cent of impounded dogs euthanised, 10 per cent released and 10 per cent rehomed.
“Similar positive results were achieved at the Stanthorpe Animal Pound in May 2015, with zero dogs euthanised, 45 per cent released and 55 per cent rehomed, in comparison with figures from March 2012 which reflected 80 per cent of impounded dogs euthanised, and 20 per cent released,” Cr Blundell said.
“These improved figures are a result of the close working relationship between council’s Local Law Animal Control Officers and animal welfare organisations based in and outside of the region, to ensure that release or rehoming of animals to new owners is the highest priority,” he said.
A new extension to SDRC’s Stanthorpe Animal Pound will open later this month.
“The new animal pound extension provides much‐needed upgraded office space for council’s animal control and pest management officers,” he said.
“It offers a more comfortable and customer-focused environment for those residents visiting the facility
to re‐home or release impounded animals.
“The upgrade also encompasses an open area for safe storage of pest control chemicals and baits, as well as storage for other pest and animal control equipment,” Cr Blundell said.
The cost of the extension, which included security fencing, landscaping and a new animal holding yard, is expected to come in at $240,000, $40,000 under the project allocation in the 2014/’15 capital budget, Mr Blundell said.
If you’re thinking about adding a pet to your family, consider rehoming an animal from council’s animal pounds. For further information about animals currently available for rehoming, telephone council’s Community Contact Centre on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 69 7372) or visit council’s website
www.sdrc.qld.gov.au.
