Animal shelter an awards finalist

THE Ballarat Animal Shelter is a finalist in the fourth Pet Insurance Australia Companion Animal Rescue Awards.

Run by the City of Ballarat, the facility is a contender in the Outstanding Council Animal Shelter category.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Daniel Moloney said the nomination recognises the Shelter’s hard-working staff.

“The past year has been challenging for our animal management team,” he said.

“We have had over 800 dogs and over 100 cats that have been reclaimed, we have adopted out over 250 dogs and over 700 cats, as well as given shelter and care to many others in need.

“From the veterinary care, to our dedicated staff, through to the students, volunteers and public that so generously donate, it is a massive team effort.”

Educational resource for pet owners, Pets4Life, facilitates the national Awards which were founded by Cathy Beer and celebrate rescue organisations, shelters, and animal welfare groups.

“This year, the Finalists have demonstrated not only excellence but also resilience and their ability to innovate in these difficult times to rescue and re-home pets,” Ms Beer said.

An online Rescue Awards Ceremony will be held in November this year on the Rescue Awards Facebook page.

The Ballarat Animal Shelter handles approximately 50 animals a week. In 2020, the facility reported that 87 per cent of dogs in their care are reclaimed, and the balance are adopted or unable to be rehomed.

Visit facebook.com/ballaratanimalshelter for further information about animals, services, volunteering and becoming a foster carer.