Dogs’ Home of Tasmania staff celebrate as all dogs find forever homes

For the first time in 70 years, all adoption kennels at a Tasmanian dogs’ home were empty.

IT WAS a bittersweet time for a Tasmanian dogs’ home as staff watched their final dog head off with its new family.

At the end of April, for the first time in its 70-year history, the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania’s Hobart site had empty adoption kennels. Chief executive Michael Sertori said although staff were celebrating, there was also a slight sadness.

“You get accustomed to turning up to work and hearing the dogs barking at breakfast time,” he said.

Animal attendant from the Dogs' Home Tasmania, Hannah Ingles with empty cages as all of their dogs have been adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“It’s quite a strange experience it being quiet. But overall, it’s joyful. The reason we exist is to find those dogs their forever home.”

With some concern among the community about more dogs being surrendered when the pandemic was over, Mr Sertori said COVID-19 was a trigger for people to adopt because they had more time on their hands.

MORE NEWS:

‘We’re changing banks’: members line the street after branch closures announced

Biosecurity steps up to meet fears of pests, diseases

North Melbourne join Hawthorn in pushing for Tasmanian games regardless of crowd lockouts

“When they come to us, find a dog that they’re going to fall in love with, and then have that time to bond, we’re more likely to have an enduring adoption,” he said.

Animal attendant from the Dogs' Home Tasmania, Hannah Ingles with four-year-old beagle cross, Cleo who was one of the only dogs left up for adoption. Picture: Zak Simmonds

For all the new dog owners in Tasmania, Mr Sertori’s advice was simple — be patient.

“They’re in an unfamiliar environment,” he said. “Just remember — you can only train a dog with positive reinforcement.”

He said when the virus hit, they called out to the public to volunteer to foster some of the dogs. Now, many of the dogs across the state are in foster care.

Head to dhot.com.au for more details.