Rehoming partnership extended

A REHOMING partnership agreement between City of Mount Gambier and South East Animal Welfare League (SEAWL) has been extended until March 31, 2029.

Council impounds lost dogs at its holding facility approved by the Dog and Cat Management Board for the legislated holding period of 72 hours and beyond. Dogs are then transferred to SEAWL as one of Council’s rehoming partners.

Council has four rehoming partnerships currently in place, including SEAWL, Wet Noses Animal Rescue, Dusty Paws Dog Rescue and Grampians Shire Council.

Mount Gambier General Manager Corporate and Regulatory Services Jane Fetherstonhaugh said they were seeing more dogs being safely returned to their owners than ever before, with 81 per cent of all collected dogs reunited with their families over the past 18 months.

“That’s a really positive trend and reflects both our team’s hard work and the responsiveness of our community,” she said.

“For those dogs that aren’t reclaimed, our rehoming efforts, especially through SEAWL, have played a vital role. Since June 2024, 87 per cent of all rehomed dogs were successfully placed via SEAWL, showing the value of that partnership.”

South East Animal Welfare League President Trevor Twilley said the SEAWL was more than happy to agree to a four year extension of the current Rehoming Services Agreement with City Council, as at the end of the day SEAWL’s and Council’s priority is the wellbeing of dogs in impound facilities.

All dogs receive a veterinary check, microchip and vaccination prior to transfer to a rehoming partner, in accordance with Council’s Unclaimed Dog Policy.

“Ultimately, our goal is to give every dog the best chance at a safe and happy outcome—whether that’s back home with their owner or into a new forever home,” Mrs Fetherstonhaugh said.