Man’s Best Friend Digs New Temporary Home at Tighes Hill

Lost dogs in Newcastle are now enjoying a more comfortable stay while awaiting return to their owners or re-homing, thanks to significant upgrades at the City of Newcastle’s Animal Facility.

Twelve new dog kennels have been built at the Tighes Hill site, offering improved ventilation, climate control, lighting, and access ramps. Additionally, a fenced exercise area has been provided to give the animals much-needed outdoor time.

The kennels are designed with future flexibility in mind, allowing the facility to expand or relocate if needed.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen expressed his confidence in the new facilities, which will help the Rangers continue delivering high-quality care alongside their other responsibilities.

“Our Rangers do an incredible job looking after the animals that come into their care,” Cr Clausen said. “In the past year alone, they’ve helped reunite 126 lost pets with their owners, while another 90 animals found new homes through strong relationships with rescue agencies.”

The upgraded kennels now align with best practice standards for animal care, providing daily exercise opportunities and fresh air for the dogs. Cr Clausen emphasised the importance of these improvements, ensuring animals remain comfortable and safe while awaiting their next home.

One recent success story involved a pregnant Staffordshire Bull Terrier, affectionately named Bonnie. With no local foster carers available, Newcastle’s Rangers worked with their interstate contacts to place her with a Victorian organisation specialising in pregnant dogs. Bonnie is now in foster care, preparing to welcome her puppies before seeking a permanent home.

The Rangers also reunited a lost American Staffy named Tank with his relieved owner last week. Tank had escaped through a hole in the fence of his owner’s new home in Newcastle but was quickly returned thanks to his up-to-date microchip details.

Cr Clausen highlighted how vital microchipping and registration are for reuniting pets with their owners. “Out-of-date registration details or missing microchip information make these reunions much harder,” he said.

City of Newcastle Rangers will offer free microchipping for eligible dogs at the upcoming ‘Pups in the Park’ event on 19 October at Federal Park, Wallsend. Pet owners can also receive assistance updating microchip details and learn more about responsible pet ownership.

For further details, visit Newcastle’s events page.