Comber TUV Councillor Stephen Cooper visited the local Assisi animal sanctuary on Thursday.
Cllr Cooper was keen to raise awareness of the many pets abandoned at the site and called for more financial support to improve the dilapidated shelter and bring it up to the required standard to meet increased demand.
Speaking after a management meeting, Cllr Cooper commented,
“I came here today to see what I can do to help support the plight of the many pets which have been abandoned or unwanted and brought here to this ageing facility.
“As someone concerned with the welfare of animals in general and of dogs in particular, I am determined to help this shelter get on its feet and provide a more modern home for discarded pets.
“I am a dog owner myself, and I find it heartbreaking to imagine the suffering and despair these poor creatures are going through.
“I was dismayed at the condition of the outbuildings and surrounding kennels, and will be exploring ways to identify possible avenues of funding which can directly improve the plight of those left here on their own.
“I will be seeking a joint meeting in due course with relevant Council officers, along with the management here in Assisi, to identify a way forward which I am hopeful can result in the centre being renovated and brought up to date in modern and comfortable surroundings, which can then be used by the wider community to attend public events, and perhaps even educational programmes and visits for schools and colleges.
“To date, Assisi has saved almost 17,000 dogs since it opened in 2002, – (almost 2,000 last year alone); and in addition, thousands of cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.
“‘The Chance Of Lifetime Scheme’, (COAL) saves dogs from being put down by transferring them to new adopted homes in GB, via the Dogs Trust, which costs £20.
“Alternatively, those wishing to adopt a pet directly themselves can drop into the centre and receive sound advice from staff on the suitability of type or breed of animal and throw a vital lifeline to the many housed here.”