CANA member volunteers amongst finalists in the 2021 Rescue Awards

The Pet Insurance Australia Companion Animal Rescue Awards shines light on the rescue groups, animal shelters, and companion animal welfare organisations who continue to save thousands of animal lives during these challenging times of the Covid-19 era.

The Rescue Awards is Australia’s first and only national awards program that celebrates and recognises achievements in the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of companion animals. The for-purpose program is managed by Pets4Life, an independent education resource for cat and dog guardians and those thinking of getting a pet.

This year, Pet Insurance Australia is the Platinum Rescue Hero and Naming Partner.

“The Finalists have demonstrated not only excellence but also their resilience and ability to innovate in these difficult times to rescue and re-home pets,” said Cathy Beer, Rescue Awards founder and rescue advocate from Pets4Life.

Amongst the finalists are volunteers from our member organisations Lort Smith (VIC), Sydney Dogs and Cats Home (NSW) and Saving Animals From Euthanasia Inc (WA).

Trish Ennis, National Executive of CANA, said, “We are proud of our members and their volunteers for their achievements providing care and rehoming services for lost, abandoned, surrendered and mistreated animals. They work hard to support the thousands of Australians who live with a companion animal and make the world a better place for pets.”

Volunteer of the Year Finalists

Kaye Cromie has been a volunteer with Lort Smith for eight years, supporting the operations of the Adoption Centre, helping as a foster carer and sitting on their Volunteer Advisory Committee.  As a foster carer, Kaye provides care to surrendered animals that need to remain in Lort Smith’s care for a longer period of time to allow for growth, development, rehabilitation or respite.

Melissa Penn’s involvement with the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home started over two decades ago before she adopted her first cat, Terry. Her long involvement with SDCH has allowed Melissa to generate trust and long-term relationships with management, members and volunteers within the organisation. In January 2020, she became Vice President.

Special Foster Carer Award

Charmane fosters dogs and puppies for SAFE Karratha WA with her family. Read about her special ‘foster failure’ dog, Kaylee, here.

For all the Finalists, visit the Rescue Awards website.

Photo credit Jo Lyons Photography