Animal rehoming support available

Pet rescue organisations, including those in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, can now apply for the second round of the state government’s Individual Pet Rehoming grants program.

Eligible organisations can apply for $500 per dog and $200 per cat for rehoming costs, such as desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, the purchase of crates, bedding and leads and training or rehabilitation, with a total of $1.25 million available.

The state government is also encouraging all Victorians to have their say on the new plan for Victoria’s new animal care and protection laws, which will outline minimum care requirements for animals in the care and control of people for the first time, enabling earlier intervention to prevent cruelty before it happens.

Agriculture Minister Gayle Tierney said the next round of consultation will continue to shape legislation.

“Victorians lent their voice to help develop this plan – this is another opportunity for people to help shape Victoria’s new animal care and protection laws,” she said.

“The new laws will help to protect animals from cruelty while supporting our valuable food and fibre industries to continue to operate responsibly and productively.”

Submissions on the plan for Victoria’s new animal care and protection laws will close on Sunday, October 16.

Details: agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/community-and-education/animal-welfare-fund-grants-program or engage.vic.gov.au/new-animal-welfare-act-victoria