Elsie Lange
Leading up to the November state election, two candidates representing the Animal Justice Party are calling for an animal shelter to service Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges.
Northern Victoria candidate and Kyneton resident Georgie Purcell issued a joined statement with Western Metropolitan candidate Meg Watkins, saying a new animal shelter would allow for “quicker reuniting”, create jobs and provide another avenue for adoption.
Hume and Macedon Ranges councils continue to use the Lost Dogs Home in North Melbourne, which was revealed last week to be facing demolition and relocation as the state government moves forward with its redevelopment of the Arden street precinct.
“Both Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges have high rates of companion animal ownership. It’s clear we love our pets in this area, and an animal shelter in the region would be welcomed,” Ms Purcell said.
“An animal shelter in our region is vital to ensure quicker reuniting of lost and displaced pets, and to provide more loving homes to surrendered animals through adoption services.
“The Animal Justice Party will advocate for a new animal shelter in the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges as we head into the November state election.”
Macedon Ranges council planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said the organisation recognised community feedback received during consultation on its Domestic Animal Management Plan about a want for a localised pound or shelter.
“As the municipality grows, council will continue to assess options for its animal services that ensures good value for money for the community and achieves positive outcomes for pets and owners,” Ms Stockfeld said.
Over 2020-21, Macedon Ranges council impounded 224 dogs and 186 cats, with 138 dogs and 23 cats directly reunited with owners by council officers, 41 dogs and five cats reclaimed via the Lost Dogs Home and 31 dogs and 102 cats rehoused, adopted or rescued.
