A Sydney Olympic Park Authority spokesperson says the park deals with numerous dumped animals but people that dump their pets in the parklands need to understand the tragedy they are creating.
“Many starve to death, freeze to death, suffer from disease or come into fatal contact with vehicles or foxes,” he said.
“Under the NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, it is illegal to dump or abandon your animal, as most will not survive in the wild.”
Dumped pets such as cats have the ability to become feral over time and pose a serious threat to native animals.
Sydney Olympic Park is duty-bound to remove dumped animals from the park for their welfare, transporting them to an appropriate care facility for a chance to be re-homed.
Removal is also important due to the damage that dumped animals can inflict on native fauna and their habitat.
“From the introduction of disease to the increased competition for food and shelter, dumped domesticated animals and native wildlife do not mix,” the spokesperson said.
“The removal of abandoned animals from the park is considered a rescue mission, and requires park staff whose time would be better spent responding to the rescue of injured native animals.”
If you need assistance with rehoming pets, contact the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League NSW or Sydney Dogs and Cats Home.
