We help lost, unwanted and surrendered dogs throughout Tasmania

Tasmanian renters will soon have the right to keep their pets, ending blanket “no pets” policies that forced many to surrender beloved companions. At Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, we’ve seen how housing stress separates families — this reform means fewer dogs will lose their homes. Pets are family, and with that comes shared responsibility to care for the homes we live in. This change brings hope for a future where no dog is surrendered simply for wanting a place to belong.

In our increasingly fraught global society, sometimes it seems like little good can be done in the face of hatred, fear and neglect. But there are many tiny lights in what can be a dark world, and Hoomans Helping Hounds is one. Joanna Smith was instrumental in a small community group’s successful fight to defeat a TasRacing proposal for a harness and Greyhound racing track in Tasmania’s north-west. Now she’s turning to a new charitable venture that already looks dressed for success.

Tasmania’s new Recycle Rewards program is now live — and through this simple yet powerful initiative, you can support Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania just by returning your drink containers to a local refund point. For every eligible container, you’ll receive a 10¢ refund, which at selected locations can be donated directly to help provide care, shelter, and new beginnings for dogs in need across the state. It’s a meaningful way to protect our environment while making a real difference for Tasmania’s most vulnerable dogs.

Following a statewide consultation that drew nearly 300 submissions, the Tasmanian Government has released a report summarising community feedback on proposed updates to dog welfare laws. There was overwhelming support for stronger breeder regulation, clearer housing and care standards, and greater accountability through microchipping and licensing. While no legal changes have been made yet, the government has confirmed that updated legislation is now in development. Here’s what we know so far.