Remote dog rescue plans given more teeth with new officers on the ground
FNQ pets
Remote dogs in Far North Queensland are set to receive better care, with a trio of animal support officers soon to be based out of Hope Vale.
Outback dog-rescue organisation Remote Animal Assistance has won a Federal Government grant to establish the unit, which will support vet care, pet owners and teach responsible dog ownership in surrounding communities.
“This is one of the biggest milestones we've reached since shifting our focus to prevention alongside rescue,” an RAA spokeswoman said this month.
Recruitment of workers is now beginning, with the aim of having the program up and running early next year.
“For us, this is a huge step: to have trained people living and working in community, to be able to identify problems sooner, support families with their animals, provide education and help connect people with veterinary care when it's needed.
“It's just the beginning of what community-based animal care could eventually look like.”
Visiting Outback communities has shown RAA what is possible when they have direct access to vet care, parasite prevention, vaccinations and education.
The funding has been provided through the about $700m federal Remote Jobs and Economic Development program.