Animal welfare boost for macedon ranges region

Animal welfare organisations in the Macedon Ranges today received a major funding boost to help them support neglected, abused and distressed animals.

In Lancefield today, Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas announced that an equestrian group will receive more than $28,000 to train emergency service workers in horse rescue.

Ms Thomas announced the funding for Lancefield Equestrian Group, who will buy large animal rescue equipment and a life-size horse mannequin to train emergency services, veterinarians, RSPCA inspectors and others how to rescue trapped horses safely.

The group hopes to improve emergency horse rescues for the good of the horses and to reduce risks to those helping them.

Ms Thomas also announced that as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare, Pets Haven in Woodend will also receive a funding grant of $50,000 to rescue and rehome dogs and cats on death row.

Pets Haven has been instrumental in rescuing and rehoming dogs seized from cruel and barbaric puppy farms.

Pets Haven will open a community veterinary clinic and adoption centre and provide reduced veterinary costs to rescue groups and affordable pet care to the community.

Pets Haven will encourage local students to undertake work experience at the new centre and clinic.

Lancefield Equestrian Group and Pets Haven Woodend are among 21 community animal welfare groups funded through the Labor Government’s $350,000 boost to help make life better for animals.

In this round of grants, eight large grants ($10,000 to $50,000) and 13 small grants (under $10,000 each) have been awarded to organisations that improve the lives of many animals including horses, dogs, cats and rabbits.

The grants are an example of the Government’s continued commitment to improving the welfare of animals in Victoria, whether it is through funding such as this or through legislation to end illegal and cruel dog breeding.

Grants were open to projects to support the work of animal welfare groups in areas such as; education programs, animal emergency relief services, programs to rehome lost animals or reunite them with their owners and facilities for dog exercise and socialisation.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"We take animal welfare seriously – that’s why we’re supporting these volunteer organisations that play such an important role in improving and protecting the welfare of our pet companions."

"During emergencies, animal welfare is sometimes overlooked – we’re proud to fund programs that ensure we plan for and protect animals as well as humans at times of high stress."