One of the questions we are most frequently asked on social media is: “Why are so many dogs being surrendered? Is it the cost of living crisis?” The answer is yes. Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania CEO Mark Wild said anecdotal evidence pointed to an increasing number of people citing financial difficulties as the primary reason for surrendering their dog. “We can see through our in-house reporting that money worries account for more and more people bringing their dogs to us,” Mark said. “It’s distressing for families to have to part with a beloved pet because they are no longer able to adequately care for them.”

It’s been a busy time for staff and volunteers at the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, with plenty of events to keep us out and about. We held successful barbecues at Bunnings stores in Glenorchy and Kings Meadows; had a stall at the 2023 Pet Expo at Princes Wharf 1; attended The Hanging Garden annual Halloween canine-themed event, Hellhounds; and the dedicated ladies of the Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania Auxiliary hosted their annual fundraising fair at the Lindisfarne Community Activities Centre.

Northgate Shopping Centre in Glenorchy has kindly invited us to offer Christmas gift wrapping services, which is a great opportunity for us to give back to the community and connect with our Dogs’ Homes family and supporters. We’ll be wrapping our hearts out at Northgate from December 15-24.