Tamworth Regional Council determined in late 2022 to take over the operation of the facility previously known as the ‘Heaven Can Wait Animal Shelter and Boarding Kennels’ for the next two years, following news of the independent facility’s closure.

With over 950 dogs received by the Tamworth Regional Companion Animal Centre each year, far exceeding the available space at the pound, the closure of one of Tamworth’s local rescue groups threatened to affect Council’s ability to meet its responsibilities under the Companion Animals Act, and risk many deserving dogs missing out on the opportunity to find a new forever home.

As a result, Council will now run the animal shelter and boarding kennels, and we need a new name!

The shelter is currently expected to be back up and running in June this year following renovations required to meet current RSPCA standards and to ensure both dogs and humans can access the site safely in accordance with WH&S requirements.

As 'Heaven Can Wait Animal Shelter and Boarding Kennels’ was the previous registered business name of the shelter before Council leased the facility, Council now has no choice but to change the name.

After Council's recent Expression of Interest, we were thrilled to have many community members put their hands up to volunteer at the facility to help us look after the dogs in our care. These volunteers will be vital in assisting us with operating the facility. We will be contacting them in the near future about the next steps in the process - training and induction!

Council will also be staffing the facility with permanent staff members.