Rehoming shortage pushes GAWS to capacity

THE City of Greater Geelong’s leading pet rescue organisation is now running at capacity, but claims its surrenders have not significantly increased since the end of pandemic lockdowns.

Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) chief executive officer Helen Cocks said the rate of dogs the society was taking into its care had not fluctuated drastically in the past year, but the number of dogs being rehomed had declined instead.

“GAWS has not experienced a significant change in the number of dogs surrendered post-lockdowns, however, there has been a decrease in adoptions.

“So while there’s a similar amount of dogs coming in compared to previous years, there are less going out to their forever homes.

“This means we are running at capacity, with many dogs in GAWS’ care staying for an increased length of stay.”

Ms Cocks said there are several reasons for surrenderings, especially owner homelessness and neglectful living situations for dogs.

GAWS observed a peak in surrenderings in 2021 because owners could no longer afford to care or feed for their dogs.

“The increase in those reasons for surrendering can suggest two main issues,” Ms Cocks said.

“Combined economic and housing pressures of the past three years leading to displacement of people and pets, and deprioritising of pets; as well as workers’ return to offices and travel, meaning animals no longer have the full attention of individuals and families.

“This can also be said for why adoptions have declined recently.

“People might be putting off adopting a dog due to the rising cost of living, property restrictions, and lack of time to spend with an animal.”

GAWS currently has about 50 dogs in its care across both the pound and adoption shelter.

Coupled with the decline in dog adoptions over the past year, significant strain is being placed on the organisation, staff, resources and animals.

“For those who are in a position and would love a furry companion, please consider adopting a dog from GAWS,” Ms Cocks said.

“We believe every life is precious and deserving of a loving home.

“By adopting from GAWS, not only will you be positively impacting that dog and your own life, but you will be helping your local shelter and the many other animals who come through.”

To adopt a dog from GAWS or to contribute donations, head to gaws.org.au for more information and to read about the dogs that are available.