Michaela Meade
More animals will be able to find their forever homes thanks to a new state government animal welfare grant.
The Individual Pet Rehoming Grants program was launched last week and aims to encourage Victorians to adopt animals in need.
As part of the program, the government will provide $5 million to organisation providing vital rehoming services.
The grants will benefit organisations like Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) in Craigieburn, a not-for-profit organisation that cares for and rehabilitates dogs and cats across the state.
SCAR chief executive Marisa Debattista said the organisation welcomed the announcement of more funding for similar organisations.
“Our team faced a 50 per cent increase in demand from people wanting to adopt a new pet – support from the government has allowed us to help hundreds of disadvantaged pet owners in our community,” she said.
SCAR’s Craigieburn facility has been supported through more than $95,000 in grants from the government’s Animal Welfare Fund to provide high quality, accessible and affordable pet care for the community.
Round one of the Individual Pet Rehoming Grants program will offer $1.25 million to organisations.
Eligible organisations may apply to be reimbursed for up to $500 per dog and $200 per cat for veterinary treatment, the purchase of specific equipment, and training or rehabilitation services delivery.
Details: animalwelfare.vic.gov.au.
