Lotterywest grant to give Dogs' Refuge Home a new leash on life
The Dogs' Refuge Home in Shenton Park is embarking on a major redevelopment project that will improve conditions for its furry residents and volunteers.
Supported by a $2,287,440 Lotterywest grant, the upgrades will deliver improved facilities that address the growing demands on the home. The State Government is also helping to fund the upgrades through a $50,000 Animal Welfare Grant.
The redevelopment will include:
- a new puppy education and adoption centre, with birthing rooms and accessible community engagement spaces
- an upgraded adoption meeting yard and lounge, enabling prospective owners to meet dogs in a 'home-like' environment
- decompression kennels offering a quiet and safe environment for reactive and anxious dogs
- heritage hub and visitors centre showcasing the organisation's history and achievements over almost 90 years
- agility training yard for enriching exercise and behavioural and obedience training.
The upgrades will deliver higher welfare standards, by creating a calm, safe and welcoming space for dogs and puppies as well as their prospective owners.
The redevelopment will adopt best practice dog welfare and handling principles. It will be energy and water efficient, and environmentally sustainable.
In addition, the project will support the health, safety and comfort of volunteers, improving recruitment and retention rates.
The home relies heavily on its dog-loving community who volunteer 365 days a year to deliver vital care for the hundreds of dogs that reside there at any one time.