Help wanted for dog shelter

A Umina pet store owner is calling for donations of dog food and toys and for volunteers to house unwanted dogs.

Ms Jody Mckinnon, owner of Paws on the Coast, said she was supporting Monika's Doggie Rescue Shelter.

"Monika is based in Sydney, has foster carers and volunteers on the Peninsula and is always looking for more.

"Each time a dog is re-homed it means she can save another one.

"Monika's currently has over 300 dogs in care which have been rescued from death row at various shelters.

"Without Monika these dogs would be another statistic."

Ms Mckinnon said Paws on the Coast supported Monika all year round by providing a drop-off point for food and accessory donations.

"Over Christmas we had a wish tree for the dogs where we collected food and accessories.

The tree had a good response but with more exposure we hope next year will be even bigger.

"Donations can be made at any time and can include food, toys, collars, shampoos, flea products and beds.

"People can also help by adopting or fostering a dog by contacting Monika's Doggie Rescue.

Ms Mckinnon said 25,000 healthy cats and dogs each year were euthanised in shelters and pounds across Australia.

"Sadly, it seems pets have become the latest throw away item in our society," Ms Mckinnon said.

Donations can be dropped into Paws on the Coast any time or call 4341 4237.

Anyone wanting to adopt or foster a dog can contact Monika on 9486 3133.

Press release, 24 Feb 2009 Jody Mckinnon, Paws on the Coast