During the 2009/2010 financial year 97 per cent of dogs impounded were successfully rehoused.

Of the 146 dogs seized 143 were released and three were euthanased, a six per cent improvement on 2005/2006 figures.

Of the 143 dogs released 20 were handed over the Cooma branch of the RSPCA.

President of the Cooma branch of the RSPCA Lil Frezza said a total of 41 dogs came into their care last year with 39

rehoused.

She believes the high rehousing rate is largely due to people who volunteer as foster carers for the animals while the RSPCA finds new homes for them.

“The number is good for a small country town,” she said.

“Council rangers are cooperative and the foster carers make a big difference.”

Mrs Frezza said initiatives such as increased advertising of abandoned pets and increased fund raising efforts had contributed to improved rehousing rates.

Funds raised go toward the cost of food and vet expenses when a foster carer looks after an animal.

Mrs Frezza has taken on more responsibility too.

She is currently looking after five dogs at her own home while new owners are found for them.

Last year, council seized a total of 17 cats and released 16 while one was destroyed.