Support furry friends this Christmas

STAFF at the Ballarat Animal Shelter are calling for donations to provide enrichment to their furry residents over the Christmas period.

The shelter, which is run by the City of Ballarat, relies on community donations to provide additional support.

The City of Ballarat budget provides for a standard diet of Royal Canin dry food for dogs and cats and wet food as a treat.

Donations are also distributed to the Soup Bus and Uniting for people experiencing hardship or homelessness who have pets.

Deputy mayor Ben Taylor encouraged residents who are in the position to donate to do so and make a difference.

“We encourage those who can, to donate something to the Ballarat Animal Shelter donation drive to help bring some Christmas cheer to these wonderful animals and to pet owners who cannot afford to provide a treat to their beloved pet,” he said.

Items staff are looking for include peanut butter, pig ears, creamy treats for cats, and dog collars, but donations of any treats, leads, toys and unopened wet or dry food will be accepted.

Donations can be made at the animal shelter Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm or at the Ballarat Town Hall Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm or weekends between 10am and 4pm.