Celia Hammond (Curtin, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I don't know if you're aware but yesterday was International Dog Day. Today I rise to recognise the Dogs' Refuge Home Western Australia, which is based in my electorate in the suburb of Shenton Park. For 85 years, the refuge has been rescuing, caring for and finding loving homes for countless dogs across Western Australia. Every year they save more than 1,000 dogs, some of which have been sadly abused, neglected and abandoned by their owners. Led by Karen Rhodes, with a small staff and a team of about 360 dedicated volunteers, the refuge ensures that any dog that comes into its care is given the veterinary treatment, care and attention they require until it can find a loving home for them.

Anybody who shares their life with a dog knows the joy and unconditional love that a dog can bring. My family have been so lucky to share our lives with Charlie and Jack, who both came from this very same refuge over a decade ago. Whether a dog is in the twilight of its life and looking for a caring and understanding family or is a little puppy filled with energy and enthusiasm and possibly looking for its first home, it deserves our love. So, if you are looking for a 'pawsome' new friend in your family, I would encourage you to visit your local dog refuge. Thank you to Karen and all the team at the Shenton Park dog refuge for all that you do.