« See all local news

On death row

10/Nov/2009

By Chris Robinson, Stirling Times

Comments: 1 reader has left a comment

DOG owners are being urged to consider the consequences of abandoning their pets after new figures revealed about 1000 dogs a year were impounded in Stirling alone.

Data obtained by the Stirling Times shows more than 2700 dogs have been impounded at the City of Stirling’s Animal Care Facility since the start of 2007.

Almost 450 dogs – or more than 13 a month – were euthanased in that time after failing to be collected by owners or being deemed unsuitable to be re-homed.

About one-third of all impounded dogs were unable to be reunited with their owners.

RSPCA spokesman Richard Barry said that the high rate of stray and abandoned dogs was disappointing.

“It’s of great concern to us that some dogs are simply abandoned for myriad reasons, ranging from a change in location through to a change in financial circumstances,” he said.

“One has to consider what their pet will go through once they have turned their back on it.”

He said a lack of desexing had a “tremendous influence” on the high number of animals needing a home.

Stirling community development director Trevor Holland urged people to be committed to pet ownership before taking on the responsibility of owning a dog.

“The City normally finds that around April each year, the number of dogs that are impounded increases,” he said.

“This may be due to puppies that are bought as Christmas gifts no longer being wanted due to size, temperament and ongoing costs.

“Owning and caring for a pet comes with responsibilities, and these are for the duration of their lives, not just the holidays.”

He said every effort was made to reunite dogs with their owners or find a suitable alternative – but dangerous and restricted breeds were not made available to be re-homed.

Stirling residents who have lost a dog can call the City’s Animal Care Facility on 9345 8555.

Bookmark and Share

What everyone else is thinking

Steve-o

11/11/2009

good read . these are the stories that make you think . lots of people would be blissfully unaware of numbers like these , now they know there are conseqences to their actions

Share your thoughts in 60 seconds!

Members : login to comment


 

Wednesday 23 May 2012

  • Min 9°C
  • Max 21°C

Thursday

  • 7 - 22°C

Friday

  • 7 - 22°C

Most Popular Articles


community digital epaper link

Latest Competitions



Win a share in $20,000 of Coles groceries Go>:


driveway comp

Fuel up with Driveway Go>:



Win a romantic getaway for two at Fremantle's finest!  Go>:


Win a double pass to the Good Food & Wine show Go>:


Win tickets to FRAGILE  Go>:



Featured Video Clips


2012 RAAF Pearce Air Show promo



Community Newspaper Group Photographer Jon Hewson goes for a spin in a P/C-9A Hawk to help promote the 2012 RAAF Pearce Air Show, held on May 19 and 20. Video, images and editing by Jon Hewson.



Circus performer Brenna Day



Circus performer Brenna Day talks about her career and upcoming performances in the Perth International Burlesque Festival. Video, images and editing by Matthew Poon.


See more videos 

Search
email subscribe linkHBF junior sports hero
Deliver our newspapers linkCommunityPix banner linkSolahart