Hundreds of animals from Mount Isa, facing possible elimination due to an overflowing pound, have been flown to Small Paws Animal Rescue Queensland in Bray Park to give them a second chance at finding loving homes.
Crisis in Mount Isa
Mount Isa city pound currently houses 114 animals, significantly exceeding its 73-animal capacity, creating a critical situation for local animal rescue organisations. They confirmed the high number of animals in their care and the pressure this places on their facilities.
From October to December of the previous year, 56 of the 188 impounded animals were euthanased. Representatives committed to working with foster groups to improve community and animal outcomes.
The recent influx of animals is described as unusually high, stretching the resources of local groups like Paws, Hoofs, and Claws, which have a network of approximately 30 carers. A representative from Paws, Hoofs, and Claws explained that Council approached them for assistance due to the pound reaching full capacity.
A Cross-State Rescue Effort
Paws, Hoofs and Claws has been collaborating with rescue groups in Brisbane to relocate the animals. They have sent 114 dogs and cats over 2,000 kilometres to Brisbane, hoping they will have a better chance of finding foster care and adoption in the larger city. The organisation has been overwhelmed by the sheer number of animals needing help. They explained that the limited number of foster carers in Mount Isa makes it impossible for them to take in such a large number of animals. They are grateful for the assistance from Brisbane-based rescue groups.
Amanda Sykes, who heads Small Paws Animal Rescue Queensland in Bray Park, coordinates the complex logistics of transporting the animals using planes and cars. She described the situation in Mount Isa as dire and emphasised the urgency of preventing certain deaths. She acknowledged that some animals may not pass temperament tests due to their behaviour after living in the bush for extended periods.
However, she stressed that many animals simply need love and a family. Small Paws Animal Rescue has raised $5,000 towards the estimated $25,000 needed for the operation, which covers release fees, transport, microchipping, and vaccinations. Sykes described the operation as a significant logistical challenge, requiring numerous methods of transport.
Seeking Long-Term Solutions
Sykes explained that relocating animals from regional pounds to cities is a solution that can be used on a case-by-case basis. She highlighted the transient population in Mount Isa and the need for more desexing programs as contributing factors to the pound’s ongoing struggles. She emphasised the importance of collaboration to alleviate pressure on the pound and give the animals a chance for a better life.
The council has invited local animal rescue groups to submit proposals for new desexing programs and has already provided $250 desexing vouchers for animals adopted from the pound.
Published Date 19-Feb-2025