A fur go for animals at next election

RSPCA Victoria is putting out a rallying cry for a “Furry Army” to help get animal welfare on the agenda of candidates and political parties at this November’s Victorian state election.

RSPCA Victoria chief executive officer Dr Liz Walker said joining the Furry Army was an opportunity for Victorians to be proactive and ensure animals who can’t speak for themselves get a #AFurGo.

“RSPCA Victoria funded a study and asked Victorian voters which animal welfare issues matter most to them. We have identified the top four and over the next three months we’ll be working to put these on the election agenda with the help of our Furry Army.”

The four issues RSPCA Victoria and its Furry Army will encourage election candidates – particularly in marginal seats – to support are:

1. Introducing mandatory desexing of companion dogs and cats

2. Reuniting registered lost pets directly with their owners

3. Making animal welfare codes of practice mandatory

4. Including ‘duty of care’ in animal welfare legislation.

“Not only do these issues rank highly in terms of public interest, but they also have the potential to substantially improve the welfare of animals in Victoria,” Dr Walker said.

“We welcome Victorians – young or old, seasoned campaigner or political novice – to join our Furry Army and help us achieve positive changes fur animals at this year’s state election.”

Dr Walker said there were several ways to make a difference, and people who join the Furry Army will be able to choose their level of involvement and get tools, resources and information that will support them to be a strong advocate for animal welfare.

For more information, head to FurryArmy.org.