A new bill banning the ‘convenience killing’ of cats and dogs in pounds hasbeen passed by the NSW Legislative Assembly.

The Companion Animals Amendment (Rehoming Animals) Bill 2021, brought forwardby Emma Hurst of the Animal Justice Party, was tabled in response to theshooting of 15 dogs and puppies by Bourke Shire Council last year.

“In NSW, tens of thousands of homeless dogs and cats are killed each year. In2019-2020, almost 4000 dogs and 8000 cats were killed in NSW pounds. Only avery small percentage of these animals are euthanised because they are sounwell it would be cruel to keep them alive,” said Hurst.

The reforms state that before an animal is killed, councils must give writtennotice to at least two rehoming organisations to inform them that the animalis available for rehoming and take reasonable steps to advertise the animal asavailable.

Steve Coleman, CEO of RSPCA NSW, said that this is a huge step in the rightdirection and will help build on the work that many councils have alreadyachieved.

“Every animal deserves a fair go at a second chance, and we can only achievethis by working together. More than anything, this bill sets up the frameworkfor a solid network dedicated to saving more animals lives.”

Despite a relatively positive outcome, RSPCA NSW was concerned to see a last-minute change to the bill, placing the onus and financial burden oftransporting the animals between facilities upon shelters and rehomingorganisations.

Tagged: Animal Companions Bill, Emma Hurst

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