Rescued staffordshire bull terriers now have a place to take shelter and recover in Carlsruhe.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes cut the ribbon for a new community foster care facility last week, which was built with the support of community fundraising and a $50,000 Animal Welfare Grant.
The facility is vital for the work to continue for non-profit Stafford Rescue Victoria, which promotes the welfare of the terriers and crossbreeds while helping to rehabilitate and re-home the dogs.
SRV coordinator Jane Hutton said the new facility would provide temporary housing for up to five dogs waiting for their forever homes, with the aim of doubling the number of dogs re-homed annually.
“The facility is just amazing – everyone is amazed by how it’s all come along and it is so important for our work,” she said.
The facility includes sheltered kennels, fenced play yards, a behavioural temperament testing area and a secure adoption zone to allow the dogs to be introduced to potential owners in a safe way.
SRV has been re-homing surrendered and unwanted dogs since 2006 and has found new homes for more than 2000 dogs since its inception. It now has 30 volunteers and recently put out a call for for more Macedon Ranges locals to become involved.
SRV ran a strong community campaign to fundraise $100,000 for the facility last year including a crowdfunding that raised almost $15,000. Support also came from Jenny and The BlueBoys who donated a percentage of profits, as well as other generous donations from supporters.
Ms Hutton said the SRV team was appreciative of the support received that had allowed the work of the organisation to continue.
