Euthanasia rates in NSW shelters have been in the news this week with some alarming statistics, but not those out of the Muswellbrook Shire Council facility.

In the past financial year a total of 493 dogs were taken in to the Skellatar Stock Route centre, along with 258 cats.

Only four per cent of these canines and 16 per cent of felines were put down.

These dropping statistics have been met by rising numbers in animals being re-homed or rescued, which is what staff at the facility are aiming to achieve.

“We do the job because we care about the animals,” shelter coordinator Georgie Barlin said.

“I know them, I care about them, I don’t want to send them to the wrong home.”

The three animal lovers – Jess Newton, Lisa Potter and Ms Barlin – spend a lot of time retraining the furry friends and teaching them manners.

While doing this, they get to know the personality of the pets, which means they can be matched with the right family.

Unfortunately, if the animals don’t fit with a family, there is a chance they will be back at the shelter, according to Muswellbrook Shire Council manager for administration and regulatory services Trina Holmes.

“If they come and adopt from us, we have a vested interest in matching them to the right home,” she said.

If you are interested in seeing the animals available for adoption at the Muswellbrook Animal Shelter, visit council’s website at www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au or contact them on 6549 3700.