The Lost Dogs’ Home is calling on people to open their hearts and homes to its dogs as it has hit capacity at its North Melbourne and Cranbourne shelters.
The Home’s spokesperson Suzana Talevski said although winter was a traditionally slower time for adoptions, there appeared to be multiple factors resulting in more dogs being available for adoption this year.
“It appears it’s a combination of the winter chill keeping people away, the rising cost of living and the owners no longer having the time to care for their animals. We currently have more than 50 dogs ready for adoption with more arriving every day,” said Ms Talevski.
“While we are desperately trying to place as many of these beautiful animals in foster care while they wait for their perfect match, we would much prefer they were in a permanent and loving home.”
Surrendered
The Home has this week released data citing the top five reasons Melburnians have listed for *surrendering their pets. They are:
- No longer able or willing to care for this animal
- Can no longer afford to care for the animal
- Moving/no pets allowed
- No time for animal anymore
- Behaviour issues of animal
The Home has reduced its adoption fees for most dogs until August 20.
“With appointments no longer necessary across our two shelters, families and individuals are encouraged to pop down to adoption centres in North Melbourne and Cranbourne where our staff will be able to match you with one of our animals,” said Ms Talevski.
“We expect this week to be very popular and with that in mind we ask anyone visiting our shelters to have some patience when waiting to meet an animal.”
The Home’s Ambassador and Channel 7 personality Sharnelle Vella encouraged anyone looking to for a new family member to consider adopting a shelter pet.
“Dogs are just the best. They give us friendship, loyalty, and so much happiness. I'm thrilled to lend my support to help find these fur babies a forever home,” said Sharnelle.
“The Lost Dogs' Home has been proudly helping reunite, rehome, and support animals for over a century. I'm proud to support the Dogs' Home in their campaign to help empty their shelter.”
*Please note surrenders are not the same as returns.