THE Bendigo Animal Relief Centre has celebrated one year of operation.
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The centre opened on July 1 last year, after taking over pound and animal services from the RSPCA.
The City of Greater Bendigo decided to run its own animal shelter services after the RSPCA attempted to increase charges related to long-standing arrangements.
In its first year, BARC has adopted more than 950 pets into forever homes, provided food, shelter, and medical attention to more than 2600 animals, and placed nearly 165 animals into foster care.
BARC cattery manager Kayla Harris said the centre had also transferred more than 150 animals to specialist organisations across the country.
"Its been incredible," she said. "It's been a journey from coming in and taking over, but we're all so incredibly proud of everything we've achieved and the amazing team we have here."
Ms Harris said Bendigo residents had welcomed BARC during the past year.
"The community has been very supportive of the changes," she said. "The community is seeing the bigger picture of what we're trying to achieve.
"Moving forward, we just want to create more community awareness around responsible pet ownership.
"We're hopeful those great numbers will get even better in the next year."
BARC is at Pipers Lane, East Bendigo. It is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to noon on Sundays.
For more information, phone 5441 2209 or visit bendigoanimalreliefcentre.com.au
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