The state government will introduce mandatory reporting and collection of data to improve the standard of care for animals in shelters and pounds, including in Hume and Whittlesea.
Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas announced the nation-leading changes to the Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds (the Code) on Thursday.
A government statement said it will be compulsory for pounds and shelters to report a range of data on the cats and dogs that enter their facilities, including data on the number of animals put down – this includes if the animal is reclaimed, enters foster care or is rehomed.
“If an animal is euthanised, the reasons for euthanasia will also need to be reported,” the government said.
“Victoria will be the first state to collect and publish such comprehensive data, which will be made available via an
online, state-wide report.”
According to the government, these changes build on existing Code measures, setting minimum standards of care and record keeping.
“While the existing Code requires records to be collected and kept for five years, it previously did not require shelters or pounds to report to government or publish any data recorded,” the government said.
“The data received will be used to better understand the volume of activity and challenges faced by shelters and pounds.”
Details: agriculture.vic.gov.au
