darwin Animal Shelter Faces Criticism Over Unfulfilled Desexing Services
Darwin animal welfare organization PAWS Darwin is under fire following accusations of “irresponsible” and “very disappointing” conduct after failing to provide paid-for desexing services to pet owners. The RSPCA NT has publicly criticized PAWS Darwin, alleging the organization continued to accept animals despite facing significant financial difficulties.
Charles Giliam, operations manager for RSPCA NT, stated PAWS’s actions painted “the industry in a bad light” and that the organization should have ceased operations once financial issues arose. “I would have expected them to do what I believe would be the honourable thing and stop taking animals in,” Giliam said.
The controversy centers on pet owners who paid for desexing procedures that were not carried out by PAWS Darwin. Owners are now facing out-of-pocket expenses ranging from $300 to $900, depending on the animal’s sex and size, and the chosen veterinary clinic.
Steve Hoyne was one such owner,whose dog Rosie was ultimately desexed thanks to financial assistance from the Desexing Assistance Community Support group in Darwin. Hoyne reported receiving no further communication from PAWS darwin following the issue.
In a statement, PAWS Darwin said they operated “at their own expense” and received “no government support,” adding, “We believe deeply in the work we do.Even when operating on the skin of our teeth, we remain committed to honouring our promises and doing what’s right.”