JOANNE Jennings’ dogs Harley and Hazel are part of the family. The Cattai resident adopted both pets from rescue organisations and hasn’t looked back.
Now, Ms Jennings is encouraging locals to share their pet adoption and foster stories for the inaugural Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards, which will shine a light on the wonderful organisations and individuals involved in rescuing companion animals.
“I think all who are involved in rescue groups are amazing. They see so much heartache but still continue to do what is right for the animals day after day,” she said.
“I can’t thank them enough for finding my two babies and looking after them.”
The Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards 2018 were founded by Cathy Beer of Pets4Life - an independent education resource for cat and dog guardians.
The program recognises the values associated with the hard-working staff and volunteers who tirelessly give their time to rescue groups and animal shelters, as well as ordinary people who have adopted a rescue pet.
Ms Jennings’ two dogs were both found wandering the streets and were taken in by rescue organisations before she adopted them.
Harley was the first, an Irish Wolfhound cross who Ms Jennings adopted from RSPCA at Tuggerah after losing her dog of 11 years to cancer.
“The store was about to close and they were just bringing Harley in for the night. He literally wrapped his front paws around my neck and wouldn’t let go,” Ms Jennings said.
“We did the sensible thing and drove away - but I was on the phone at 9am the next morning saying we were coming to get him!”
Hazel was adopted from Sutherland Shire Animal Holding Facility – a new friend for Harley.
“Harley loves having a friend and we get greeted every morning with an enormous bundle of wags and kisses - puts a smile on our face every time,” Ms Jennings said.
Awards categories open to rehoming organisations are Outstanding Rescue Group, Outstanding Animal Shelter, Outstanding Council Animal Shelter, Innovation in Rescue, Community Education and/or Outreach Program, and Volunteer of the Year.
The People’s Rescue Story category is designed specifically for pet owners who have fostered or adopted a companion animal such as a cat, dog or another pet.
Judging will be done by a panel of seven representatives from companion animal welfare and the pet industry.
There are cash prizes, as well as pet food and accessories up for grabs.
Entries close Friday, August 31. Go to rescueawards.com.au.
Sarah Falson
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
