Animal abuse is a form of family violence. It is a high-risk factor of family violence. Many victims will often remain in the violent relationship for fear for the pet’s safety and wellbeing. Many will stay for fear of having to leave their pet behind while they find suitable housing or sometime temporary accommodation doesn’t allow pets. Strathbogie Shire Council offers temporary care for dogs of victims.
Time frame
– Victims of domestic violence can get temporary accommodation for their dogs at the Strathbogie Shire Pound in Euroa. The dogs can be housed for up to 14 days free of charge to allow victims to secure safe accommodation for themselves and their pet.
– If the dog needs to stay in care for longer, foster care may be considered until the victim has found acceptable safe accommodation.
Type of care
– All animals admitted to the Euroa pound receive daily interaction with animal attendants. All food and water for the animal will be included in this service.
– Enrichment will also be provided in the forms of outdoor play and suitable toys.
Who can access the care on behalf of the victims
– Family violence services
– Community services
– Victoria police
How to apply
– Your support worker or Victoria police can contact Strathbogie Shire Council on 57950000
– Euroa Pound Animal Details Form will need to be filled out with the animal’s information before the animal is taken into Strathbogie Shire Councils care.
Reuniting families with their animal
– After the animals 14 day stay Strathbogie Shire Council will contact the relevant agencies to organise the reunion with the owner.
– If multiple attempts to contact owner or agencies have been unsuccessful over a period of 2 week then the animal will be deemed as abandoned and the council will proceed with the process of rehoming/ adoption if the dog is suitable after being assessed by a veterinarian and a Compliance Officer.
– Strathbogie Shire Council will rehome in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Management of dogs and cats in Shelters and Pounds.
Cost
– Any dog staying at the Euroa pound must be registered with Strathbogie Shire Council and microchipped before they will be released back to owner.
– Any dogs staying in the Euroa pound must be up to date with vaccinated and up to date with worming,
– If the dog requires veterinary treatment during their stay their owner will be liable for the costs associated with the treatment.
Additional support for Domestic Violence Victims
– Lifeline Australia call 13 11 14
– Beyond blue call 1300 224 636
– 1800RESPECT call 1800 737 732 – 24 hours family violence and sexual assault help
– Domestic Violence Hotline call 1800 656 463
– Safe Steps call 1800 015 188
– WAYSS call 9791 6111 – provides housing help
Useful links
Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds | Codes of Practice | Domestic Animals Act | Animal Welfare Victoria | Livestock and animals | Agriculture Victoria