An extension project currently underway at the Latrobe City Council pound will provide the animals with more room for exercise and socialisation.
Latrobe City Council Mayor, Cr Dan Clancey, said the upgrade, worth just over $130,000, would see exercise yards and a cat cage constructed.
“When animals end up in our pound, it can often be a traumatic experience for them and their owners. Sometimes, an animal may stay with us for a while before they can either be reunited or adopted, so being able to exercise regularly or play with other animals is important. The extension will provide an improved experience for our furry guests,” Cr Clancey said.
“The improvements will allow dogs to access an external exercise yard, and a communal cat cage that will allow medically-well cats to socialise. But, the benefits of the project in terms of physical and emotional health and wellbeing for impounded animals cannot be overstated.”
The project is in three parts:
- The extra cat room will provide additional space for cats and for Council to hold them for a longer period to increase their chance of adoption. The room provides an area where people looking to adopt cats can interact with them in a pleasant and safe environment. It will also allow cats to socialise together.
- Air conditioning to all cat rooms will allow greater control of temperature, providing a more comfortable environment and better health outcomes.
- Two dog runs will be constructed to allow for exercise and social enrichment, as well as a secure area for those wishing to adopt to interact with the dogs.
“Work has started but the facility is still open for community members to collect impounded pets. The project is expected to be finished by the end of July, providing there are no delays as a result of the pandemic,” Cr Clancey said.
To ensure the safety of staff and the community during the works, the Animal Management team has moved to an appointment only system. Call 1300 367 700 to arrange a time.
Animals for adoption and lost pets can also be viewed online at www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/pound
