Townsville City Council will continue to manage the Animal Shelter after the proposal was endorsed by Full Council today.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council had been successfully operating its own adoption service and continuing the current arrangements would benefit both the animals and the community.
“Continuing to run our own rehoming and adoption service will ensure the animals are given the best care while also providing ratepayers with the best value for their money,” Cr Hill said.
“Our experienced staff will continue to provide animals with the highest standard of care at the shelter.”
Cr Hill said Council has partnered with Volunteering NQ to ensure suitable volunteers are available to undertake a range of roles at the shelter.
“We are working with Volunteering NQ to find animal lovers who are willing to volunteer to walk, play, feed and clean the animals at the shelter,” Cr Hill said.
Community Health and Environment Committee Chair Cr Ann-Maree Greaney said Council provides everything the animals require before they are adopted into their new homes.
“Council is doing everything possible to make sure every suitable animal is found a new home,” Cr Greaney said.
“All animals are de-sexed, microchipped, registered and vaccinated before are adopted out.
“Council also offers residents discounted adoption fees for promotions like Howl-a-ween, MeowVember and Black Cat Friday to provide the animals with the best chance to find their forever home.”
Cr Greaney said Council established the Animal Management Reference Group to promote responsible pet ownership.
“It is crucial that we educate the community to act responsibly and take care of their animals,” Cr Greaney said.
“Council already rewards responsible pet owners by holding regular free microchipping days and reducing reclaim fees to make it easier for pet owners to reunite with their lost animals.
“I hope we get to the point where an animal shelter is no longer needed but we need the community to ensure they look after their pets responsibly.”
