The shelter commenced operations under council's management on November 1, 2020, setting out to return lost animals to their owners and educate the community on responsible pet ownership.

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In conjunction with this work, the shelter has also given unclaimed, stray and surrendered animals the chance for a new life, taking every opportunity to rehome the animals that find their way to the facility.

The milestone 300^th adoptee, Monday the Torti cat, calls attention to the adoration the team have for their work and each life that comes under their care.

Port Macquarie Animal Shelter team leader Emmalee Andrew recalls Monday's story vividly, sharing that the cat was named after the day of the week she was brought in.

"Monday was brought in after she was found wandering around a house that was recently vacated. We assume she was left behind because she was staying close to the home, she was incredibly friendly and definitely a domesticated cat," she said.

"After Monday's eight day impound stay, a couple who had recently lost their family pet inquired almost immediately. They were the perfect fit for her, so she's now found a new home with them at their farm in Wauchope."

Monday's story is just one of 300 adoption tales that have allowed the shelter's team to influence and create a positive mind shift towards responsible pet ownership.

When a pet is found and is microchipped and registered, in most cases council's rangers will be able to take the animal directly to home to their owners.

"Our primary aim is to reunite pets, and ensure all owners are educated on taking the best care of their pets. Where this isn't possible, we're glad each pet is given a second chance with a new family," Ms Andrew said.

"When you adopt from us, you're getting an animal that's desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and registered. We make sure all new pet owners are equipped with the knowledge and means to provide the best care. You're not just giving one animal a home, you're helping us help others by promoting responsible pet ownership," she said.

The Port Macquarie Animal Shelter uses their Facebook page to bring attention to lost, stray and surrendered animals in the hopes of reuniting them with their owners in the first instance, or finding them a new home.

To read more about responsible pet ownership, visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/Pet-owner-responsibilities.

Or visit the shelter's Facebook Page.

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