THE Ballarat community has opened its hearts to our furry four-legged friends, with only a limited number of animals available for adoption at the Ballarat Animal Shelter as stage three lockdowns continue to bite.
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Unlike the first lockdown, the shelter has stayed open with all adoptions now by appointment only, with only one person allowed in the shelter with staff at any one time.
As of this week, just five cats and less than 15 dogs are still available for adoption, with hundreds having been adopted over the past six months.
"This is a great result, compared to recent numbers of almost 200 cats being cared for at the shelter," a shelter spokesperson said.
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"More people, including families being at home during COVID and having the time to devote to caring for an animal, is credited with the increase in adoptions.
"Staff initially feared pet ownership could become an issue for families in hardship but to date it has been the opposite and the community has been embracing pets into their homes."
However, if you are still looking for a pet, you can visit the shelter under a series of new, strict guidelines.
"The adoption process has changed as a result of COVID-19 Stage 3 restrictions to achieve social distancing requirements and to reduce the likelihood of the spread of disease for staff and visitors," the spokesperson said.
"All visitors can only come to the shelter for the following reasons: stray animal collection or drop off; adoption opportunities animal pick up for special groups (foster program); service providers; or as a donation drop off point.
Temporary fostering of animals is also available, however prospective foster carer must meet their own criteria.
"Today no dogs are in foster, as the need has passed, however the environment can change quickly and the shelter asks that people watch its Facebook page for updates and community assistance requests." the spokesperson said.
If you have lost an animal and it has been handed in or picked up and taken to the shelter, you can make an arrangement to pick it up by calling 5334 2075.
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