The Dogs' Home of Tasmania is our official pound facility under the Dog Control Act. And for 75 years, they have been saying one simple word: yes.
Yes to the lost dog found wandering the streets.
Yes to the dog whose family can no longer care for them.
Yes to the dog who is injured, in pain and out of options.
Since 1950, the organisation has been committed to ensuring every dog in Tasmania has the chance to be safe, loved and cared for.
A vision that began in 1950
The Dogs' Homes of Tasmania was founded by Gladys Rawson, who saw dogs living on the streets, injured, abandoned or forgotten, and believed they deserved better.
Seventy-five years later, that vision remains unchanged.
More than a pound
Many people know the Dogs' Homes of Tasmania as a pound or a place to adopt a dog. While it proudly provides pound services for many local councils, the organisation's work extends far beyond that role.
Today, it is Tasmania's largest canine welfare charity, providing shelter and care, veterinary treatment, rehabilitation services, behavioural support, foster care programs, and rehoming services, all powered by community support.
As a charity, everything the Dogs' Homes of Tasmania does is made possible by a community of supporters who believe every dog deserves a second chance.
For generations, Tasmanians have helped ensure that when a dog needs assistance, someone is there to answer the call.
Meeting a growing need
The demand for support remains constant.
In this financial year alone, more than 2000 dogs have come through the organisation's doors. Each dog arrives with a unique story and set of challenges.
Some are frightened and confused. Some are recovering from neglect or injury. Others simply need a safe place while they wait for a new beginning.
Violet, a brave little dog on the road to recovery.Violet's second chance
One of those dogs was Violet.
At just four months old, Violet suffered severe injuries when her leg became trapped after a fall. The fractures were extensive and, when her owners could not afford the veterinary treatment required, her future became uncertain.
For a young puppy in pain, there were few options left.
That's when the Dogs' Homes of Tasmania stepped in.
The organisation coordinated emergency veterinary care, arranged foster accommodation and ensured Violet received the treatment she desperately needed.
Despite every effort, Violet's injuries could not be repaired and her leg had to be amputated.
But her story did not end there.
Like so many dogs before her, Violet was given the opportunity to recover, rebuild her confidence and find a loving home.
Today, she is thriving with her new family.
She is safe. She is loved. And she is exactly where she belongs.
Helping dogs like Violet every day
While Violet's story is remarkable, it is not unusual.
Every day, the Dogs' Homes of Tasmania supports dogs that need:
- medical treatment
- rehabilitation
- behavioural support
- patience and understanding
- a second chance at life.
It is the reason the organisation exists.
A promise that endures
The Dogs' Homes of Tasmania's work is only possible because of the generations of Tasmanians who have volunteered, fostered, adopted, donated and supported its mission.
As the organisation marks 75 years of service, its commitment remains the same:
- When a dog has nowhere else to turn, the Dogs' Homes of Tasmania will be there.
- To open the door, answer the call, and give all dogs a second chance.