a great day for dogs in Victoria

Today in The Age newspaper I read that animals here in Victorian pounds or shelters do not have to be killed if they are still in the institution after 28 days. Thank goodness! The article says they will have as much time as necessary to find homes.

The Victorian government, after consultation with major stakeholders and with the public, has ruled not only to remove the 28-day limit, but also that:

Animals can be fostered for a variety of reasons, such as for veterinary or behavioural rehabilitation, if they are juveniles, or if they require short term care to provide respite from the pound or shelter environment. Animals can be fostered for any time period, as long as it is done in accordance with the written foster care agreement.

Severely injured or unweaned animals will no longer be automatically killed on admission. (I didn't know about that rule!)

Puppies and kittens must be inspected more frequently than older animals.

And:

A new enrichment, exercise and socialisation section offers guidance on improving the environment and welfare of shelter animals, particularly those housed in the long term. This includes the ability, under certain circumstances, to exercise dogs off premises, or to be socialised in groups.

The government announcement sure is welcome!