AWLQ shelter full as pets given up amid cost of living crisis

The Gold Coast’s biggest pet shelter is at capacity, with heartbroken owners forced to say goodbye for a devastating reason. MEET THE PETS LOOKING FOR HOMES

DEVASTATED owners are giving up their pets because they cannot make ends meet or find an affordable rental.

Staff at the Animal Welfare League (AWLQ) shelter in Coombabah say they are at capacity because surrenders are up, while adoptions are down as people find themselves unable to pay for pet food and vet bills.

Spokesperson Craig Montgomery said people were usually very reluctant to give up pets, meaning they were often in desperate situations by the time they approach the shelter for help.

“We are seeing more inquiries from people needing to surrender animals due to their financial circumstances,” Mr Montgomery said.

“We’re typically the last point of call for them. Often people would try to rehome the animal through friends or family, or through their social network, and typically the shelter is the last resort.

“So when they reach us they’re at crisis point.

Shelters are filling again because people can't afford everyday cost of living and rental increases, let alone the cost of a pet. AWLQ Rehoming manager Mikaela Thrift with English Staffordshire Terrier pups Lester, Loyal and Areo. Picture: Glenn Hampson.

“... The last thing the family wants to do is relinquish the animal, especially when you’re at one of the lowest points of your life. Because we know the important role companion animals play in helping us in emotional situations.

“In some cases it’s like giving up a child.”

Mr Montgomery said the shelter staff “pass absolutely no judgment” on people who are forced to surrender their pets because they are struggling.

He said pets of all kinds were being surrendered, including puppies and kittens, meaning anyone thinking of adopting a cat or a dog was spoiled for choice.

“We’ve probably got the best selection you’ll ever find now,” he said.

* See the cats and dogs available for adoption at the AWLQ, Shelter Rd, Coombabah from 12pm-5pm, Tuesday to Saturday or visit awlqld.com.au.

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