A modern animal shelter fitted with raised bedding for dogs and a dedicated room to house cats will replace the City's ageing pound in Halifax which is more than 30 years old.
Member for Bunbury MLA John Castrilli opened the Regional Animal Shelter and Pound on Tuesday - made possible by $200,000 from Royalties for Regions, $150,000 from the Department of Local Government and $150,000 from the City of Bunbury.
The City’s Acting director of Corporate and Community Services John Kowal said the regional facility in Davenport would cater to 15 cats and 35 dogs and would service Bunbury, the Shire of Dardenup and Capel.
“This is a great facility because it’s just better for the welfare and hygiene of the animal with more space, more aeration, climate control and a purpose built facility for cats,” Mr Kowal said.
Mr Kowal said on average, the local animal shelter received 600 dogs per year and about half that in cats with a 95 per cent return rate to owners and to re-homing.
He urged pet owners to ensure their fences were suitable and secure, their cats and dogs micro-chipped and wearing registration tags.
Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan said the regional animal shelter highlighted how local governments can work together to achieve good outcomes.
Other features of the shelter include a veterinary treatment room, advanced security systems and improved conditions for staff.