Heaven Can Wait Animal Shelter has taken over the Barnes St kennels.

Organisation founder Kate Davies was excited to have new headquarters.

“It gives us the opportunity to rescue more dogs from the pound,” Ms Davies said.

“When we can’t get a foster carer in a matter of a days, the dogs can come and stay here until we do find a foster carer.

“It also gives us more control over the training of dogs that may have a few issues.”

Ms Davies said 14 of the 28 kennels would be set aside for boarding.

“That will give us an income to support the rescue side of it,” she said.

With the new headquarters, Heaven Can Wait would be looking to implement more community programs.

“For example, we have a mental health program at the pound where people with mental health issues walk the dogs and we want to transfer that to here,” Ms Davies said.

While the kennels can house a number of dogs, foster carers will remain a big part of the organisation.

“We won’t be having cats here, because we believe cats need to be in a family environment,” Ms Davies said.

The kennels need extensive renovations before they are ready for the shelter’s needs.

“I would like to have it up and running within two months – whether that’s possible or not I don’t know yet, but that’s our aim,” Ms Davies said.

“The more volunteers we can get, the quicker we can get it done.

“If anyone wants to donate their time, skills or supplies, it would be most welcome.”

The kennels do not take animals dumped at their gates and any animals that are will be taken to the pound.

To find out more information, or to give the group a hand with the renovations, call 0401 641 114 or 6765 5661.