CAIRNS Regional Council is seeking volunteers to provide extra love and attention to pets at its Animal Care and Education Centre (ACE).
Hundreds of lost and unwanted pets are cared for at the centre each year and while every effort is made to ensure their stay is the best possible, extra affection never goes astray.
Mayor Bob Manning said volunteers would predominantly socialise with and provide additional enrichment activities for cats and dogs, supporting their physical and emotional wellbeing, and in doing so, make a valuable contribution to council’s rehoming efforts.
“Shelter life can be difficult for cats and dogs, especially those who are used to a quiet life at home and a lot of one-on-one attention,” Cr Manning said.
“Our ACE facility has been purpose-built to limit the stress on animals in our care, but there is only so much staff can do while operating a very busy centre.
“Through simple things like an extra walk, basic obedience training, play time and additional pats and cuddles, volunteers can make a real difference.
“In return, volunteers receive the physical and mental health benefits of being around animals, have the chance to learn new skills and connect with like-minded people, and have the satisfaction of knowing they have made a real difference in a pet’s life.”
Council is currently looking for residents who can volunteer for a 2-hour shift, in either the morning or afternoon, any day from Monday to Friday, at the Woree facility.
Interested animal lovers can find out more at the ACE Volunteers Information Session on Wednesday 27 September, from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, at council’s Spence Street Administration building.
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