This week, RSPCA Victoria will hand the reins of the Warrnambool Animal Shelter to the City of Warrnambool after operating the facility for more than 20 years.

The handover comes after the City of Warrnambool elected to investigate alternative operating arrangements, with RSPCA Victoria working with council over the last few months to ensure a smooth transition for the community and the animals at the shelter.

Speaking about the change, RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker was grateful to the community for its support over the last 20 years.

“While it’s certainly the end of an era, we’re so incredibly grateful to the community, our staff members, and our wonderful volunteers for making the RSPCA Warrnambool Animal Shelter a success over the last two decades,” Dr Walker said.

“The team of local staff and volunteers have cared for around 1,200 animals each year, providing them with vital veterinary care, food and shelter, and the best possible chance of finding their forever home.

“The care of these animals wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of these people along with the community members who have generously opened their doors to these animals.”

Dr Walker went on to explain how RSPCA Victoria would still be helping locals after the City of Warrnambool takes over operations at the shelter.

“While we won’t be involved in the operations of the Warrnambool Animal Shelter, RSPCA Victoria will continue to help the community in other ways,” Dr Walker said.

“We know people right across the state are struggling, particularly with the cost-of-living crisis, and when people are experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage their animals are also affected.

“Many cruelty cases we see aren’t necessarily malicious cruelty, but rather cruelty as a result of neglect, due to people’s circumstances changing beyond their control, or simply not knowing what their pet needs.

“Along with our Inspectorate continuing to investigate animal cruelty reports from across the south-west region, our Education and Community Outreach teams will also be in the area, working with those who need it most to help prevent animal cruelty before it begins.”

To find out more about RSPCA Victoria’s Education and Community Outreach programs visit rspcavic.org. To report animal cruelty call (03) 9224 2222 or visit rspcavic.org/cruelty-report