SHELLHARBOUR rangers working hard to return lost pets to their homes was rewarded last week with an offer to reduce costs paid by council for RSPCA services.
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For eight years Shellharbour City Council has worked with the RSPCA to provide impound services at its Unanderra facility.
At the December council meeting, council resolved to renew its agreement with the RSPCA and continue to impound animals as required at its Unanderra facility.
The proposed contract is for a three-year term at a reduced cost to reflect the 40 per cent re-homing rate provided by City Regulation Officers – significantly higher than the NSW State average of 29 per cent.
As a result, terms of the contract were reduced from $153,000 to $93,765 plus additional fees and charges – a saving of approximately $40,000 for the financial year.
Mayor Marianne Saliba said rangers were devoted to working with the community to ensure the safety and wellbeing of pet animals.
‘‘The staff are a credit to our community and seek out new initiatives to improve the outcomes for pets and their families," Cr Saliba said.
The staff’s proactive approach includes a commitment to providing pet free microchipping in the Shellharbour City area - promoted and offered at times during the year.
The contract includes the continuance of council staff providing educational support and advice to animal owners on appropriate animal care and wellbeing where re-homing occurs. The RSPCA will continue to be wholly responsible for the care, sustenance and costs associated with surrendered animals, in accordance with relevant Animal Control Laws and their own policies and procedures.