Community
5 July, 2024
Council takes control at animal shelter
AFTER more than two decades operating the Warrnambool Animal Shelter, RSPCA Victoria last week handed the reins to Warrnambool City Council.
Last Friday’s official handover came after the City of Warrnambool elected to investigate alternative operating arrangements.
RSPCA Victoria has been working with council over the last few months to ensure a smooth transition for the community and for the animals at the shelter.
Speaking about the change, RSPCA Victoria chief executive officer Dr Liz Walker said she was grateful to the community for its support over the past 20 years.
“While it’s certainly the end of an era, we’re so incredibly grateful to the community, our staff and our wonderful volunteers for making the RSPCA Warrnambool Animal Shelter a success over the last two decades,” Dr Walker said.
“The team of local staff and volunteers have cared for about 1200 animals each year, providing them with vital veterinary care, food, shelter and the best possible chance of finding their forever home.
“The care of these animals wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of these people, along with community members who have generously opened their doors to these animals.”
Dr Walker said the RSPCA would still help locals after the City of Warrnambool takes over operations at the shelter.
“While we won’t be involved in operations of the shelter, we will continue to help the community in other ways,” Dr Walker said.
“We know people right across the state are struggling, particularly with the cost-of-living crisis, and when people are experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage their animals are also affected.”
Dr Walker said that many cruelty cases that are seen aren’t necessarily malicious cruelty, but rather cruelty as a result of neglect due to people’s circumstances changing beyond their control (or simply not knowing what their pet needs).
“Along with our Inspectorate continuing to investigate animal cruelty reports from across the south-west region, our education and community outreach teams will also be in the area working with those who need it most to prevent animal cruelty before it begins.”
To find out more about RSPCA Victoria’s education and community outreach programs visit rspcavic.org/community-outreach
To report animal cruelty phone 9224 2222.
