Lost dogs now finding homes

Tails were wagging last week when City of Rockingham statistics revealed 99 per cent of dogs brought into its pound facility were claimed by their owners or re-homed during the past financial year.

Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said just one per cent of animals brought in were destroyed.

City ranger services co-ordinator Kristi Milana said the City had been working towards achieving the target for the past four years and commended her team on their dedication to the City’s lost and unwanted canines.

“This is a great result – we are very proud of these figures and it shows that our strategy is working,” she said.

“It is important for us to continue to educate the community and change the stigma that is associated with dog pounds and animal care facilities.”

There were 1151 dogs impounded by the City during the 2012-13 financial year and of those, 750 dogs were returned to their owner and 378 found new homes.

Cr Sammels said dogs were quickly advertised on the City’s website and owners often identified their pet.

He said it was common for dogs to escape from backyards when storms had damaged walls or fencing.

“If you have lost your dog or are looking to provide a new home for an animal, you can view dogs currently at the pound by visiting the City’s website and clicking on the paw icon,” Cr Sammels said.

Wandering dogs should be reported to the City’s ranger services.

To learn more contact the team on 9528 0333.