Quiet eve for animal aid staff

STAFF at Coldstream’s Animal Aid were pleasantly surprised by the low number of dogs and cats brought in over the New Year holiday period.
They were braced for a deluge of cats and dogs to pour in through the pound gates, but were relieved to experience their quietest New Year’s Eve on record.
“Perhaps the cancellation of many of the arranged firework displays, due to the extreme weather conditions, could account for a reduction in animal numbers,” shelter spokeswoman Debra Boland said.
“But considering the amount of media warnings from Animal Aid and surrounding council offices, we would like to think the message is finally getting through.”
Ms Boland said the shelter received only 27 dogs in a 24-hour period over New Year’s Eve, a 50 per cent reduction on the previous year.
“Sixteen of the 27 dogs were claimed on the same or following day, microchips and council tags being the main form of identification in helping us reunite them with their owners,” she said.
Ms Boland said animal owners who want to know more about microchipping, or anyone with a lost pet, should contact the shelter on 9739 0300 or e-mail enquiries@vaat.org.au.