The ongoing Phase 2 trial for the drug monepantel (MPL) is finalising dose optimisation and is a prelude to a multi-institutional canine cancer Phase 3 trial to start early next year.
The trial’s principal investigator Dr Kim Agnew is leading a team of highly qualified veterinary oncologists in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia who are evaluating MPL in dogs that have been newly diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma and have not started any treatment.
PharmAust is currently setting up Agreements for additional trial centres in New Zealand and the United States in preparation for the broadened reach required for the Phase 3 trial.
Cancer is the number one cause of death in dogs over the age of 2*. Lymphoma is one of the more common cancers in dogs and occurs in the white blood cells of the immune system. Symptoms can include tumours, lethargy, weight loss and loss of appetite.
National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Month is a reminder to pet owners to regularly inspect your pet for any lumps or bumps and pay attention to sudden changes in appearance and behaviour.
“The key to a good prognosis with canine lymphoma is early diagnosis and this particular form of cancer is very rapidly progressive, so it’s important to act quickly,” said Dr Agnew.
MPL shown to be a safe and effective cancer treatment
MPL is already approved for veterinary use for a different indication and species. PharmAust is aiming to repurpose MPL as a safe and effective cancer treatment.
“During the trials to date, over 25 pet dogs have been treated with MPL for lymphoma and the results are very promising,” said Dr Agnew.
“So far, we have shown that the new MPL tablet is very palatable and easy for pet owners to administer at home. Furthermore, at the recently identified optimal drug blood levels, side effects seem to be very minimal and all pet dogs that have maintained these levels over the course of treatment, have been assessed as at least stable disease by the administering veterinarians.
“Some pet dogs have continued after the trial on a combination of this optimum level of MPL and prednisolone, and all have exceeded the life expectancy of dogs that might be administered only prednisolone at diagnosis.”
Veterinary trial testimonies can be found here.
PharmAust inviting more dogs to help complete trial
PharmAust was pleased to successfully meet its predetermined interim goals demonstrating both significant objective clinical benefit and significant overall response rate. It is now inviting more dogs with treatment naïve lymphoma to help complete the final optimisation of the Phase 2 trial in a bridging program before moving into the Phase 3 trial.
“PharmAust’s long term strategy is to develop MPL to treat cancer in both dogs and humans,” said Dr Richard Mollard, CSO of PharmAust and CEO of PharmAust’s wholly owned subsidiary Pitney Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd.
“In pet dogs with treatment naïve B-cell lymphoma and in humans with treatment refractory cancer, Monepantel displays strong evidence of anti-cancer activity. However – and perhaps more interestingly following our retrospective analysis of trial data in combination with prednisolone – Monepantel could be capable of doubling the life expectancy of pet dogs with B-cell lymphoma compared to if treated with just prednisolone alone. We now plan to do some more analysis and formally test this hypothesis in the Phase 3 clinical trial.
“Most importantly, all dogs also appear to enjoy a high quality of life while taking Monepantel, with reports of trial participants enjoying camping and playing at the park and at the beach with their owners.”
Program entry criteria
The canine entry criteria for MPL Clinical Trials can be found here and include:
- Any stage lymphoma (based upon physical exam, abdominal ultrasound and thoracic Xray)
- Substage a (feeling well)
- Immunophenotype can be pending, but needs to be B-cell based on clinical characteristics
- No previous treatment, including corticosteroids (prednisolone)
- No other significant concurrent medical problems
- Good quality of life.
The MPL program currently involves three consultations at the clinical trial sites (admission, at two weeks and at four weeks). These clinical trial sites are also listed here.
Owners need to transport their dogs to and from the trial sites for these three consultations. PharmAust will cover all trial costs, including for pet owners located at some distance to the trial sites, travel expenses as well as overnight hotel stay if needed.
For more information or to enrol, please contact Dr Richard Mollard on rmollard@pharmaust.com
Source: Press Release
Photo: Freepik
Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said the new laws would end ‘without grounds’ evictions and make it easier for Queensland renters to keep a pet.
The new laws will also ensure all Queensland rental properties meet minimum quality standards and extend protections for renters who have experienced domestic and family violence.
“Queenslanders rely on safe, secure and affordable housing and we’re delivering on our election commitments to modernise Queensland’s rental laws and improve confidence in the rental market,” Ms Enoch said.
“About 34 per cent of Queensland households rent and these new laws provide a strong, balanced approach that protects the rights of renters and rental property owners, while improving stability in the rental market.”
What the new renting laws will do for pet owners:
- If a renter requests to keep a pet, a rental property owner must have reasonable grounds to refuse and respond in writing to this request within 14 days.
- Reasonable grounds include if the property is unsuitable, and if keeping the pet would breach laws or by-laws.
- Rental property owners can also place reasonable conditions on pet ownership, including that the pet is to be kept outside or that carpets are cleaned, and the property is fumigated at the end of a lease.
- Rent increase is not a reasonable condition. The laws also clarify that fair wear and tear does not include pet damage.
CANA response to new QLD rental laws
Companion Animal Network CEO Trish Ennis has welcomed Queensland's new legislation making renting fairer for pet owners, however raised concerns about conditions placed on the lease for pet owners, such as pets needing to be kept outdoors.
“I worry that people that are making the laws have never rented,” she said. “We believe in the human-animal bond. It is unreasonable to add these requirements to the law. People should be able to keep a dog and cat inside provided they do so responsibly to prevent damage.”
For instance, cats should be kept inside for many reasons - especially in curfew areas – to prevent injuries and catching diseases such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and protecting wildlife.
“Also, instead of allowing landlords to have a condition of fumigation at end of tenancy if the pet is capable of carrying parasites (i.e. that means all cats and dogs), it would be fairer to allow the condition that if there was flea infestation at the end of the tenancy, fumigation could be required, as many tenants will use effective flea protection or may have 100% indoor cats,” said Ms Ennis.
“Queensland’s new law should reflect those set in Victoria, ACT and NT. In Victoria for example, the landlord has the right to submit their objections to VCAT should they wish to reject an application including pets.”
For more information on the rental reform process, visit https://www.chde.qld.gov.au/about/initiatives/rental-law-reform
To ensure pets of all ages, from young puppies to elderly cats, are receiving proper training that is required to support good behaviour, PETstock dog trainer Tina Button has compiled some helpful tips.
Uncover motivation
Test their skills with common verbal cues and hand signals to see if or what they respond to. Find out what motivates them most and use it as their reward, such as food, a toy, pats or praises.
Teaching basic commands
There has never been a better time to train your pet or teach them a new trick such as to roll over, fetch, shake a paw, find an object or person, or any basic exercises such as sit, drop, stay. Food and clickers or marker words can be used to train your dog.
A short session is a good session
Keep training sessions short and sharp to maintain engagement and improve results, any longer than five minutes and your pet may lose interest. It’s important to have a regular training schedule to promote good behaviour as well as provide bonding and enrichment for your pet. Many short sessions and finishing on a win. Always be clear, consistent and concise with your commands to avoid confusing them.
Use enrichment toys
When you’re not actively training your pet, an easy and effective way of keeping them active and mentally stimulated is through enrichment toys. Lick mats, Kong wobblers, puzzle toys and cat wands, are a great way to keep your pet mentally stimulated and entertained for hours.
Create an agility course
Whether your pet is a dog, cat, rabbit or guinea pig, a home-made agility course is a fun way to challenge their mind and body. This could include using an ottoman as a step, shoes as hurdles or socks to create a maze for smaller pets. Use basics commands such as “jump”, “stay” or “go” during the course to reinforce commands needed out of the home. Before doing intense physical exercise, ensure your pet is fit and healthy. Have your vet check them out if you are unsure.
Be patient
When training your pet, try not to lose your temper, raise your voice or punish your pet for bad behaviour as this can exacerbate the problem even more or cause fear and anxiety, which could lead to further issues. If you are having a bad day, give your pet enrichment toys to entertain themselves and train them when you are relaxed.
Socialisation
For puppies currently unable to attend puppy school, it’s critical that they receive exposure to the environment. Socialisation with other animals is only a small part of the process. It’s important that your pet is exposed to different sounds, smells and sights. Take some treats with you when you have your pet with you, if they exhibit calm behaviour reinforce this with yummy soft treats that are high in value
Source: Press release from PETstock
Photo credit: PETstock
The Victorian Government introduced legislation in Parliament on October 6th to allow Victorians to take a lost dog or cat to a participating vet clinic or registered animal shelter to be reunited with its owner, rather than relying on councils.
At present, lost cats and dogs must be handed in to an authorised officer in the council area where the animal is found, or to vets and shelters that have an agreement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Surveys show just 23 per cent of vets have a contract with council to accept lost pets and as a result many animals are spending longer in pound and shelter facilities. The proposed reforms will:
- Allow shelters and participating vets to accept and reunite lost pets directly with their owners, with simple record keeping and reporting requirements
- Improve animal welfare by ensuring lost pets get home as quickly as possible
- Reduce burden on local councils, by allowing vets and shelters to assist with direct reunification services
- Improve operations for regulatory authorities, including the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Victoria and Greyhound Racing Victoria.
The Domestic Animals Amendment (Reuniting Pets and Other Matters) Bill 2021 includes a robust verification process to ensure pets are returned to the correct owner.
It also identifies circumstances where pets should go to the council to protect public safety and animal welfare. This includes situations where an animal is declared dangerous or ownership cannot be verified.
These reforms are important as Victoria has high pet ownership rates, with an average of 665,000 dogs and 215,000 cats registered with councils each year.
Extensive consultation with community and stakeholders including veterinarians, councils, shelters, animal registry (microchip) services, rescue groups and community foster care networks was an important part of the process that led to the final form of the legislation.
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said, “When a pet goes missing, it is stressful for the animal and its owners. This reform will make the reuniting of pets with their owners much easier and quicker, improving the welfare of all involved.”
“We will ensure that lost pets are reunited with their owners sooner and reduce the pressures placed on councils by allowing vet clinics and registered animal shelters to play a bigger part in the reunification process.”
The new arrangements will be in effect by 1 October 2022. For more information visit agriculture.vic.gov.au.
And they’re taking you with them in the book Around Australia At 80ks, written and photographed by Meredith Schofield (Mez).
Mez and Sean adopted Bandit from CANA member Sydney Dogs and Cats Home. You can watch this short video about how Mez and Sean found their rescue pup Bandit. It’s such a beautiful story!
The Story Of ... Bandit from Foraggio Photographic on Vimeo.
Bandit arrived at SDCH in 2017 with major injuries that limited his ability to walk or jump. He had a broken back, pelvis and leg that appeared to have healed without veterinary intervention. He was adopted by Mez and Sean, who committed to strengthening his muscles with frequent walks and exercises on the soft sand at the beach. Today he’s a healthy, beloved pet – living life jumping, running and playing – and is more well-traveled than many Australians!
Around Australia At 80ks follows this motley quartet’s adventures and misadventures as they make their way around our great southern land. Bursting with inspiration, insider tips, dog-friendly travel advice and stunning photography, this book is the holiday we all need. Watch the book trailer.
This great Aussie road trip took Mez, Sean and Bandit across four states, one territory and over 22,400 kilometres. They drove over dirt roads, down four-wheel drive tracks, onto ferries and boats, to the edges of cliffs, across beaches and up mountains. They ventured through dust storms and croc-infested waters, over red dirt, into some of the most ancient lands on Earth, and along some of the most isolated roads in the world. All in their trusty vintage 1975 kombi, Meredith’s camera at the ready and with a true sense of wanderlust to fuel their journey.
As a photographer, Mez knew this once-in-a-lifetime adventure would offer her the opportunity to capture Australia in her own unique way, particularly after the dramatic changes to our landscape since the devastating bushfires.
When it comes to travel, Meredith is full of encouragement and enthusiasm.
“It took guts to head out across this great big country in an old yellow kombi. I hope every page gives you a little more of the confidence and comfort you need to set out on your own adventure. If we can do it in a 1975 kombi you can do it too!”
Along with awe-inspiring images, Around Australia At 80ks is jam-packed with hints and tips for keen travellers, from dog-friendly highlights and best camping spots, to locating the tastiest cheap eats and the finest coffee. Around Australia At 80ks provides all the inspiration you need to get out on the road!
Paperback: 256 pages
RRP: $35.00
ISBN: 9781922419545
Available for purchase here
Source: Book Press Release and Sydney Dogs and Cats Home
1080 baits are used extensively by farmers and pastoralists throughout the State on both private and government lands to control feral pests, including wild dogs, foxes, pigs and rabbits, which threaten livestock and biodiversity.
Tourists travelling with pet dogs are urged to consider putting them on a lead, muzzling when off lead, or avoid bringing them on holiday to prevent them being poisoned.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) regional biosecurity coordinator Lindsay Strange said while the use of 1080 baits was strictly regulated, pet owners needed to take responsibility for the safety of their animals.
Mr Strange said there were some simple steps pet owners should follow to protect their animals from the risk of poisoning from 1080, for which there is no antidote.
- It is advisable to check with the landholder to see if baiting has been undertaken on the property before letting dogs roam free.
- While landholders are required to erect signs to warn of baiting as part of a 1080 baiting permit, WA’s landscape is vast and travellers may not always see them.
- It is prudent to avoid areas suitable for baiting like watercourses, tracks, fence lines, rock piles and posts and to keep pets on a lead or use a muzzle to prevent them eating a bait.
- The safest strategy of all is for travellers to leave their pets in the care of others or in a kennel when baits are on the ground.
1080 is a naturally occurring toxin (sodium fluoroacetate) found in many Australian plants. Most native animals have a high degree of tolerance to 1080, while most domestic animals are very sensitive.
Mr Strange said baiting was typically undertaken in spring, which elevated the risk to domestic animals, although it could occur year round – particularly as baits can be viable for months.
“1080 is an important tool used by landholders as part of an integrated pest management strategy to protect their livestock, as well as to help preserve our State’s unique flora and fauna from death and injury from pest animals, such as wild dogs,” he said.
The control measure is also used by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ Parks and Wildlife Service to protect native species on the land it manages, which is why the department does not permit dogs in national parks and other conservation areas.
DPIRD will distribute a ‘1080 baiting: a must for pest control but a risk to domestic pets’ flyer to tourist hotspots as a further reminder for dog owners to keep their pets close.
If poisoning is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or veterinary assistance or contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
Press Release from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
Guest blog by Bec O'Callaghan, Director at Oscillot®
Keeping cats ‘contained’ – what does that mean? It doesn’t necessarily mean keeping them in one room for the duration of their lives or that they should never taste the freshness of the early morning dew on the grass. It’s about ensuring they stay within the boundaries of your property.
Safely contained
There are many benefits to keeping your cat contained:
- Vehicle Accidents
The number one reason why cats shouldn’t be roaming the streets, is because accidents do happen. Whether you live in a busy neighbourhood or not, you’re always going to run the risk of losing your beloved fur baby on the roads. - Not Everyone, or Everything, Loves Cats
Cats are curious by nature, which is why they always go searching for new adventures, regardless of whether the destination welcomes them with open arms. Whether you live in a non-cat-loving neighbourhood or there’s a really hungry and aggressive dog living next door, the last thing you want is for your cat to end up in unchartered and unwanted territory. - Local Council Trapping
According to the Dog and Cat Board of Australia, there are various regulations involved in owning a cat which include microchipping, desexing and limiting their roaming parameter. It’s also worth noting that council officers are legally allowed to seize and detain unidentified cats. Live in a region where Cat Curfew By-Laws are in place? Expect a fine if your feline is caught roaming beyond the boundaries of your property. - Disease and Impregnation
It's harsh but true, cats (especially strays) are often carriers of disease. This doesn’t necessarily mean your cat is the carrier, but if your cat roams around the neighbourhood, it runs the risk of catching something from roaming cats and even rodents. Furthermore, if you haven’t spayed your cat yet, it’ll probably impregnate other neighbourhood cats, or you’ll get an expensive surprise in a few weeks. Either way, you don’t want your cats coming home with anything harmful or unwanted. - Getting Stolen
As absolutely unethical as it sounds, there is nothing stopping a child or even an adult from taking your beloved fur baby home if found roaming the streets. Oftentimes, our cats visit other homes and nap there for a while. This poses a lot of risk, as people might assume your cat is a stray and welcome him/her to their family for good. - Protect Wildlife
Sadly, research shows pet cats play a leading role in threatening or causing the extinction of many Australian native species. In fact, roaming pet cats kill 390 million animals collectively per year in Australia.
You might believe your feline friend doesn’t hunt because you never come across evidence of killed wildlife, but studies that used cat video tracking collars or scat analysis have established many pet cats kill animals without bringing them home.
Keeping your cat securely contained at home at all times is the only way to prevent it from killing wildlife. - A Sense of Security
You want to know that your floof is safe, happy and healthy. Keeping your cat contained in your yard not only protects him/her from outside dangers, but also gives you peace of mind knowing your cat is safe at all times.
Find out ways to keep your cat contained in this article.
Guest blog by Bec O'Callaghan, Director at Oscillot®
If you’re reading this, you’re probably already just as much of a cat-lover as us! And as cat-lovers, we surely want to do everything in our power to keep them safe, happy and healthy. That mindset, however, does come with its limitations – after all, no one wants to keep their beloved furball locked away in a tower or cage forever.
Though keeping them indoors is an option to keep them safe, there are various other ways to ensure your cat is living its best life. So, this blog is for all the cat-lovers who would move mountains, couches and entire beds for their cats.
Here’s how you can keep your feline family member happy, healthy and safely contained without turning your yard into a mess!
It’s 6am and you’re making your way to the kitchen for your much-needed morning brew. Once the smooth aroma of coffee hits the calm morning air, you take your cup outside where you intend to spend at least 15-minutes embracing your surroundings, listening to the birds chirping, and enjoying the miracle of coffee…Only to be rudely awakened to the reminder that you recently had a cat net installed in the yard. Ugh…
Keeping our cats contained is undoubtedly a new trend. In the 80s and 90s, no one felt the need to keep their beloved cats inside at all! Today, however, there are many very important reasons why keeping your cat contained is the best option. But should it be at the cost of your home aesthetics? It shouldn’t be…
Oscillot was invented by South Australian by filmmaker, Paul Bok, in 2006. Paul noticed an obvious lack of options for cat owners to keep their beloved feline friends safe at home. The only options on the market at the time appeared to be either cages or netting...and let's face it, who wants to turn their yard into a prison? After extensive research and development, Oscillot was born right here in Australia!
Oscillot has no cages, no nets, no wires and no electric current, it is completely safe and will not cause harm to your cat, wildlife or little curious hands that may reach up and touch the system.
Containing your cat is not only the best way to keep your cat safe, but it also protects native wildlife living in neighbouring parks and reserves. The Companion Animal Network - Australia (formerly Animal Welfare League of Australia) and the Animal Welfare League of Queensland have endorsed Oscillot as a safe and responsible method of containing pet cats to their own property.
We might be biased, but Oscillot really is the best option if you want a clean, effective and aesthetically-pleasing fence to keep your fur-baby safe. We guarantee that you’ll be able to enjoy your cuppa, garden and beloved floof for many years to come!
Right, so they're contained. Now, how to ensure their days are happy and enriched?
Contrary to popular belief, cats don’t need to roam to be happy. There are numerous ways to keep your kitties happy within the bounds of your house and garden, including:
- It’s All About Personal Space
It’s well known that cats are both territorial and independent. If your cat is particularly finicky about their space bubble, it’s important to give him/her that personal space they desire. Whether you have one cat or more, cats are very territorial and prefer their own feeding bowl, litter box and sleeping station (even if it means giving up yours). - Scratching, Scratching, and More Scratching
Most cat owners, if they aren’t master Yoda pet trainers, have the signature nail scratches engraved into their couches. Cats pride themselves on the sharpness of their claws, so if you want to spare your furniture, be sure to invest in some PAWsome scratch posts, tree trunks or anything your furry friend can use for heavy-duty scratching. - Quality Time is the Best Time
Whether you’re forcing kisses after work or taking out the laser for a good laugh, cats love spending time with, playing with and receiving love from their parents (or loyal servants if you will). Be sure to spend loads of time with them when you can to stimulate their physical and mental health. - Desexing Does the Trick
It’s well-known that cats are very territorial, especially if they aren’t spayed. But when they aren’t spayed, they also roam a lot more to either find a mate or to expand their territory. When cats are desexed, they don’t have the hormones motivating them to fight or roam anywhere as much as an in-tact feline. - Create More Vertical Spaces
Cats love vertical spaces. They seem to have that instinctual need to be in high places to observe their environment from on high. Perhaps so they can look down on us mere mortals? Creating more vertical spaces allows them to have a stronger sense of security, and of course, more space to play and explore. Adding wall-mounted shelves or getting a cat condo can give your feline friend a safe sanctuary to retreat to whenever they feel stressed. (Just make sure you keep the vertical platforms away from the fence if you're installing Oscillot). - Avoid Poisonous Plants
Cats love to chew on everything and that includes plants. Common house and garden plants, such as Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane), Philodendron, Poinsettia, Mistletoe and Lilies, are deadly to cats. As a safety precaution, you must keep these dangerous plants well out of reach; or better yet, completely avoid putting these plants in your house or garden.
Safely exploring the yard with Oscillot ensuring containment
The benefits of keeping your cats safely contained at home far outweigh the negatives. There is no greater step you can take to preserving your cat’s health and lifespan than by adopting and actioning the mindset that cats should stay at home with their owners, not be allowed to roam the neighbourhood and fend for themselves.
At Oscillot, we have developed the product that can help you achieve cat containment relatively quickly and easily and without ruining the aesthetics of your home and garden. The last little bit of the solution is up to you!
You can check out our Cat-Proof Fence Kits here.
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
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas said 21 organisations would receive a Pet Desexing Grant under Round One of the $1.5 million program, including the City of Port Phillip and the Bendigo Animal Relief Centre. The grants could see more than 4,000 cats and 650 dogs desexed.
“These grants will ensure Victoria’s most vulnerable pet owners can access free or low-cost desexing and help limit the numbers of unwanted cats and dogs in shelters across the state,” said Ms Thomas. “The funding is an important step to support councils and not-for-profit organisations to provide critical desexing services and improve animal welfare outcomes for our much-loved pets.”
As part of the $500,000 offered in Round One, the City of Port Phillip has been awarded $47,521 to establish the Pets of Port Phillip Clinic, which will offer free desexing services for an estimated 225 cats and dogs owned by disadvantaged people living in public housing estates in the area.
City of Port Phillip Mayor Louise Crawford said, “This grant means we can assist more than 200 residents living in public housing by providing free desexing, vaccination and microchipping for their dogs and cats at the Pets of Port Phillip Clinic.”
A $15,725 grant will support the Bendigo Animal Relief Centre to deliver the Bendigo Community Cat Program which will desex, vaccinate, microchip and register 50 cats whose owners are low-income earners.
Bendigo Animal Rescue Centre Operations Manager Fra Atyeo said, “Through the Bendigo Community Cat Program we are aiming to provide an affordable service to residents that will increase the number of micro-chipped, desexed, and registered cats in the community.”
Pet Desexing Grants are funded through the Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program and will provide $1.5 million over three years to support councils and not-for-profit organisations that provide free or low-cost desexing of cats and dogs for disadvantaged members of our community.
Since the Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program was launched in 2012, 169 grants have been awarded to not-for profit and community organisations, totalling almost $4.2 million, to improve responsible animal ownership and provide better welfare services for companion animals in the community.
