Melbourne’s wild weather results in a deluge of dogs

 

Flood waters at North Melbourne

As news reports warned of the expected storms, staff at The Lost Dogs' Home prepared, ensuring additional Animal Ambulances were on the road and staff were on the phones.

When the sky darkened and the thunder and rain began, the dogs currently at the Home barked a cacophony.

From 4.26pm yesterday through to 7am today, the Home took 46 calls for its Animal Ambulance to attend stray dogs, with 32 terrified pets rescued as a result of the massive storm.

Among the stressed and wet pooches was Rottweiler Terra, who became trapped in a storm water drain in her attempt to flee from the thunder.

“Considering the amount of rain we’d had in such a short space of time, we feared for Terra’s safety. She was terrified – not only from the thunder, but also at the situation she found herself in. We managed to gain her trust and get her to the safety of The Lost Dogs'  Home.” said Animal Ambulance driver, Noeline Humphries.

Terra’s owner was very relieved to know she was safe and well when Home staff called this morning.

“On a typical night our Animal Ambulance will rescue up to seven dogs. We expect an increase in calls today and tomorrow as more strays are found by members of the public.” commented General Manager, Sue Conroy.

“Close to 60 percent of the dogs brought in overnight have current identification, so we have been able to notify their owners first thing this morning.”

The Lost Dogs’ Home urges owners to ensure their pet is kept safely inside when wild weather is expected, as well as being microchipped and wearing wearing up to date collar identification.

Free collar identification tags are available from www.petregister.com.au.

The Herald Sun featured a gallery of some of the dogs
we've taken in during the storm period. You can view the gallery here.