A petition calling for Singleton Council to build a new animal shelter – and improve the state of the existing pound in the meantime – has attracted 4536 signatures in three weeks.
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Some animal advocates say the current facility leaves dogs exposed to the elements and needs to be upgraded – even amid talk of a new shelter for area.
The petition, started by advocacy group Boarding Kennel and Cattery Reform Australia, also criticised councillors for approving a pay rise for themselves while no money was being spent to upgrade the existing pound.
“The Singleton Dog Pound is an old building that is exposed to the elements from the front,” the petition noted.
“This place is very cold in the winter and extremely hot in the summer.”
But Singleton Mayor Sue Moore said the RSPCA had recently inspected the shelter and “were satisfied”.
The RSPCA did not respond to the Herald’s request for comment on the matter.
Cr Moore said a report would be tabled at the September council meeting that would deal with plans for the new pound, possible locations and costs involved.
“A new pound is progressing as a result of council resolutions from last year,” she said. “The petitions seem pointless as it [construction of a new pound] is going to happen, at least as far as I am concerned, anyway.”
Lake Macquarie animal advocate Sandie Starbuck said she had been in contact with Singleton Council recently, agitating for improvements at the pound.
“The impounded pets who are there through no fault of their own, will continue to endure extreme weather conditions,” she said.
“This appalling situation has been dragging on now for a long, long time.”