G'day,

The Fun4Paws team has been busy assessing what we have achieved so far in our 'dog bushfire relief project'. We have also been discussing how we intend to continue our efforts.

When the bushfires first begun we responded to an expectation that there would be a need for temporary foster homes for pets. In order to meet that need, we extended our current dog minding model to include this free service. Currently many people from the bush fire affected areas are holding on to their animal friends as they have already lost so much. We expect this need to be more prevalent as people begin to rebuild or relocate.

Fun4Paws is now moving into the next phase of our project. We are focusing our efforts, going back into the bushfire zones and asking the people concerned exactly what they would like us to provide to make it easier for them to keep and care for their animals. We are also looking to support the vet hospitals that have assisted the animals, as they have expended so many of their resources for free. When speaking to the coordinators and community leaders within the affected areas, they have been very receptive to our offers of assistance.

Two of our volunteers, Lynne & Marcus, are in Kingslake and Whittlesea today continuing this process, and we will be heading to other affected areas in the weeks to come.

Some examples of what we are supplying are; dog kennels, portable yards, bowls, food, bedding, leads and collars. As they are required we will be shipping them to the relevant people and areas.

However we can help, we will, and this next fortnight will see major progress. Check our blog for up to date information, our aim is to keep you fully informed and to help the survivors of this terrible tragedy.

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Update - I have just spoken with Lynne and Marcus who are currently at the emergency animal relief centre. They are desperate for veterinary supplies as their practice was burnt down in the fires. They are currently working out of another building using a plastic trestle table for consultation. We will let you know how we are able to help them.

Regards

Luke