Goodbyes don't come much happier than this.
Wollongong Pet Connection has gladly farewelled its longest tenured resident, with Banjo, a one-year-old cattle dog finding a new forever home.
Found roaming in Brownsville in July this year by one of Council's Animal Compliance Officers, Banjo's microchipped showed that he usually resided at an address in the Wollongong LGA, but his registered owner never came forward to claim him.
Having found temporary digs through Wollongong Pet Connection's foster care program , Banjo received lots of interest at an adoption event in September, but sadly no genuine adoption requests.
Thankfully, social media posts did catch the eye of Tayla and Jack, particularly given he is the spitting image of the latter's first childhood pooch.
"When Jack and I saw a photo of Banjo sent to me by a friend, we immediately knew we wanted to meet him," Tayla said.
"He reminds Jack of his childhood dog, so it was love at first sight for him. Banjo is a playful, funny goofball who loves a nap or 10 and is the source of so much laughter in our household."
"We wanted a dog who was able to keep up with our energetic household and would also enjoy regular trips to the farm and Banjo is the perfect fit."
"He is definitely a water lover and will love swimming with the kids in the farm dam in the summertime. Banjo is our first family dog, and he has fit right in. Adopting him was an absolute no brainer and we absolutely adore him."
Banjo is one of 182 animals - 75 dogs and 107 cats - who've been successfully rehomed via Council's Wollongong Pet Connection program since its inception in April, with Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown urging anyone with room in their life for another family member to consider adopting a furry friend.
"I'd urge anyone looking for a loving addition to their family to please consider rehoming pets in need of a fresh start before looking elsewhere," Cr Brown said.
"Council covers all the basic medical expenses for pets adopted from Wollongong Pet Connection, with all dogs and cats vet checked, microchipped, desexed, dewormed, vaccinated and lifetime registered.
"If you're not a hundred per cent sure, or you're not in a position right now to make a long-term commitment, there's also the option for Foster Care. Council provides all food and supplies needed for you to care for your fostered animal until it finds a forever home."
Ready to meet your future pet soulmate? See here to view our current list of available dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies for adoption.
