Charity unveils improved stray dog rescue centre

A NEW and improved home for stray dogs has been opened in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Those who find a stray dog can take it to the Hope Rescue Centre in Llanharan at any time of the day, any day of the week.

The centre, which also has improved kennelling facilities for strays, held its official opening earlier this month, and replaces the shelter in Dinas, which had limited opening hours.

Vanessa Waddon, transformation manager at Hope Rescue, said: “Hope Rescue has worked in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf council for the last four years to take all their unclaimed stray dogs after they have completed their statutory seven days.

“We are delighted to now also be providing their stray dog reception service and a safe place for the strays of the borough 24 hours a day. We will shortly be starting work on a state of the art stray dog intake block to further improve the facilities her at our new centre.”

The centre has extended opening hours for owners wanting to reclaim a dog from the kennels.

Animal wardens, who were based at the old animal shelter, will work across the county borough, responding to calls about stray dogs during office hours, as well as promoting responsible dog ownership and supporting residents who may have dog-related concerns, such as barking or dog fouling.

Councillor Rhys Lewis, deputy cabinet member for prosperity and wellbeing, visited the new Hope Rescue Centre last week.

He said: “Following extensive consultation with our partners and residents, the council was able to use business development support from RCT Together to assist Hope Rescue in developing the new facility on the site of a former dog boarding business in Llanharan.

“This enhanced provision means stray dogs can be taken to a place of safety 24/7, where they can be cared for – and receive any veterinary treatment if needed – until they are reclaimed by their owners.

“Any dogs that are not claimed will automatically transfer into the care of Hope Rescue and will be prepared for a new home.”

If you find a stray dog in RCT between the hours of 9am and 5pm, call 01443 425001 to request a visit from the animal warden. If you find a dog outside of these hours, call 01443 425011.