Bunbury’s four legged friends in need of new homes amid rental shortage

Bunbury Animal Rescue and Rehome Care has called out for animal lovers to foster or adopt dogs following an unprecedented influx of requests for help to rehome dogs in the area.

BARRC committee member Sally Dixon said the increase in demand for the rehome service, particularly for bigger dogs, was partly due to the housing crisis and the problem had escalated over the past 18 months.

“One of the primary factors contributing to this crisis is the ongoing rental shortage,” she said.

“Many dog owners are being forced to rehome their pets because they cannot secure rental properties that either accept dogs or are affordable.

“The skyrocketing rental prices are making it increasingly difficult for pet owners to keep their furry family members, leading to a heart-breaking rise in dogs needing new homes.”

Ms Dixon said BARRC was struggling to accommodate the influx of displaced dogs, with a lack of available space and resources meaning the dogs had nowhere to go.

“This situation is exacerbated by a prevalent issue that many dog owners are not committing to the necessary socialising, training and overall wellbeing of their pets,” she said.

“Properly socialised and well-mannered dogs are much more likely to be welcomed into new homes and communities.

“However, many owners give up on their pets too early, especially during the challenging adolescent phase, leading to dogs being confined to backyards without the care and attention they need.”

Ms Dixon said the issues needed to be addressed by the community as a whole by promoting responsible pet ownership and supporting initiatives that make properties more accessible to pet owners.

“We call upon all dog lovers to consider adopting or fostering a dog in need,” she said.

“Fostering provides a critical lifeline for dogs awaiting their forever homes and can make a significant difference in the lives of these animals.

“BARRC takes care of all the essentials, covering the cost of veterinary care, food and necessary equipment. Additionally, the rescue (service) offers training assistance to help foster carers manage and care for their foster dogs effectively.”

Ms Dixon said now was the perfect time to step forward if you had ever considered making a difference in the life of a rescue dog.

“By becoming a foster carer, you can provide a temporary sanctuary for a dog in need, offering them love, care and stability until they find their permanent family.”