Help spread Christmas cheer at the Ballarat Animal Shelter

The Ballarat Animal Shelter is calling on the community to help spread some Christmas cheer to the many animals requiring care heading into the festive season. The annual drive is looking for donations of food, toys, bedding and treats.  

Donations will be shared with local not-for-profit agencies which support people in need who have pets to care for, including people who are homeless and fleeing family violence.  

Items specifically needed are;  

• Wet food for cats and dogs.  

• Treats for cats and dogs, especially pigs ears, sardines for cats and peanut butter for dogs.  

• Toys for cats and dogs.  

• Collars (but not leads).  

• Towels, flat sheets and blankets. 

Donations can be dropped off at the Ballarat Animal Shelter (Gillingham Place, off Gillies Street, Alfredton) between 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday.   

The Ballarat Animal Shelter is a not-for-profit facility and relies on the generosity of an animal-loving Ballarat community. In Ballarat there are currently more than 15,000 dogs and more than 6,000 cats registered.  

In 2022 a total of 2,430 animals went through the shelter, this included 1,090 dogs and puppies, 1,268 cats and kittens and 72 guinea pigs, rabbits, rodents, pigs, chickens and goats. 

City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor, Cr Amy Johnson said it is also a timely reminder this festive season that pets are not gifts. 

“Pets can add so much value to our lives and in Ballarat we have really high rates of pet ownership. Unfortunately, we also have a high number of animals surrendered to the Animal Shelter, with 493 animals surrendered this year alone. I believe this indicates that perhaps many people may not fully understand the responsibilities that come with pet ownership,” she said.   

“I encourage those considering purchasing or adopting a pet to talk to others about their experiences with caring for an animal. We need to make sure we’re fully aware of what’s involved in caring for different types of pets prior to welcoming them into our home. 

“The animals at the shelter are cared for by an incredible team of staff, but often do this work with such minimal resources.  

“So, next time you’re cleaning out the linen cupboard, or buying pet food or toys, think of all the animals at the shelter and the difference you can make in their lives through a donation of these items. 

“It’s a big decision to bring a pet into your life, so make sure you do your research and make the best decision for you and your family.”   

The Ballarat Animal Shelter will be open throughout the festive season, and only closed on the public holidays, the out of hours team will always be available for reclaims, so please make sure, your animals are chipped and registered before this upcoming holiday.