As winter hits, Geelong Animal Welfare Society is calling for pet adoptions and money donations. Check out some of the dogs and cats ready for adoption.
Now might be the perfect time to do so with Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) at capacity.
GAWS chief executive Helen Cocks said it was “very concerning” to see more than 500 animals in the shelter’s care.
“It isunusual to be at capacity with these sorts of numbers of animals in care at this time of year,” Ms Cocks said.
“This year we are still receiving kittens, which ordinarily during winter we would see fewer numbers.
GAWS staff member Jake Peachey with Pumpernickel, a six-year-old Cane Corso mix. GAWS is calling for pet adoptions and monetary donations. Picture: Alan Barber
“We are noticing that other shelters and rescue groups are also full.
“As we are at capacity now we are concerned how we will manage as we move towards our busier times of the year of spring and summer.”
There are currently 470 cats and kittens, and 90 dogs and puppies in GAWS’ care.
The shelter is calling for people to take the leap and adopt a new furry friend, or to make a donation to help support the work they do through the GAWS winter appeal.
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Ms Cocks said animals came to the shelter for many reasons.
These could include strays whose owners couldn’t be located, surrenders from people or families no longer able to look after the pet, people moving interstate or overseas, health reasons where the owner could no longer manage, and older people entering residential care.
“We don’t judge and we want people to come to us if they need assistance,” Ms Cocks said.
“We offer wait lists for animals needing to be surrendered.
“If owners can manage we will vaccinate their pet and provide assistance until a vacant spot in the shelter is available.”
Ms Cocks said animals from shelters were “wonderful” and brought joy to both the new owners and the adopted pets.
Dogs, cats up for adoption from Geelong Animal Welfare Society
“Come and see for yourselves the beautiful, friendly, funny, quirky dogs and cats that we have,” she said.
“If you can’t get to our site then you can see all the animals for adoption on our website.
“Like all charities, fundraising to cover costs is becoming more challenging and financial donations are vital to us.
“Donations of all sizes whether large or small, are meaningful to us and make a difference.”
Donations fund animal care, food, toys, medical treatment, diagnostics and surgery among other vital services.
GAWS has an ambitious fundraising goal of $50,000 for the winter appeal 2023.
For more information or to donate visit gaws.org.au
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