The work of re-homing stray dogs and cats is set to continue at Nambucca Shire Council's pound as a part-time remunerated position, rather than one that has depended on the good will of the pound attendant.
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In 2017 rehoming began under an arrangement with 'Friends of Kempsey Pound'. Since that organisation ceased council's pound attendant continued the work voluntarily due to a personal view of not wanting animals to be euthanized.
In 2018, 123 animals were rehomed instead of being euthanized as they would have been in the past. Only feral cats and dangerous dogs were euthanized.
At their meeting on June 27, councillors commended the attendant for her initiative in establishing the re-homing program locally and creating the necessary networks with multiple rescue organisations and animal transport providers.
They voted to recognise her voluntary hours as working hours at a cost of approximately $19,650 per year, which is $11,650 more than simply euthanizing animals, which would have cost $8000.
Previously council has had staff who euthanized animals and only the disposal of the animals' bodies and purchase of supplies was in the annual budget.
General Manager Michael Coulter recommended the council support the remuneration of the pound attendant.
He said that thanks to her efforts, the council now had an exemplary performance in rehoming unwanted companion animals.
If you have lost an animal you can contact the council on 6568 2555.
