Residents urged to contact Council to collect stray animals

Charters Towers Regional Council is urging residents to contact Council’s Rangers if they see stray domestic animals rather than using local vets as a drop-off point.

Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Johansson, said the community are overwhelming the local vets with strays.

“We are seeing a trend where residents are dropping stray animals off at the local vets because they think this is the right thing to do. Unfortunately, this is straining our vets, as it isn’t their responsibility to accept stray domestic animals.

“We’re asking the community to do the right thing and contact Council. Our Rangers can secure the animal, so it doesn’t get hit by a car or cause problems in the community and help it find its way home.

“Our Rangers go to considerable effort to find and reunite all animals with their owners.  If they are unsuccessful in finding an owner, they strive to rehome all unclaimed animals. 

“Since January 2019, Council’s Rangers have reunited 181 dogs with their owners, rehomed 104 dogs and have connected 102 dogs with rescue organisations.

“During this same period, only three dogs were euthanised. Two were due to significant motor vehicle injuries and one that was declared dangerous.

“Since 1 January 2020, we have had a 100% success rate with rehoming both kittens and adult cats.

“Council’s Rangers work tirelessly with rescue organisations all around Australia to find the perfect home for unclaimed animals. Through this approach, animals have been re-homed to places as far away as Tasmania,” said Mr Johansson.

To report a stray domestic animal, contact Council Rangers on 4761 5300.

If you are looking for a new pet, the pound frequently has a number of animals available for adoption.  For more information visit www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au

CM 19 March 2020