New Initiatives for Council's Animal Management Facility
Published on 24 September 2025
Adopting an ideal pet from the Mount Isa Animal Management Facility (AMF) has just got easier, with all dogs now getting trained and socialised to ensure they are suitable for rehoming.
As well as this, the AMF has recently introduced a trial adoption initiative, which gives people the opportunity to temporarily foster a dog in their home for free for up to two weeks.
If they decide the dog is right for them, they can go through the process of formal adoption, which includes a discount voucher for desexing and microchipping. If not, the dog can be returned to the AMF, free of charge.
Impounded dogs that are candidates for rehoming are now tested for aggressive behaviour, are socialised with people, and receive basic behavioural training.
The facility will also soon have a picture board up at its front counter with photos of all the dogs they have available for adoption.
“Every dog that’s impounded here has to pass a behaviour test; that’s its first initial step. Our staff have now been trained in how to do that,” Council’s Regulatory Services Acting Coordinator Scott La Praik said.
“Once they pass that test, it gives that assurance that the dogs we have in the pound are ready to be rehomed and become a beloved family pet.”
In a first for Council, Regulatory Services staff have recently undertaken crisis-care training, which means they are better prepared when it comes to de-escalating complex situations and consoling aggrieved parties in cases of, for example, a dog attack.
“Qualified staff will then follow up with them after the event. The crisis-care officer will come out with a Ranger who’s also had that training and they will be on-site at the point of impact of the event,” Mr La Praik said.
“No other Council offers that service.
“We’re going to lead the way and be more proactive in the community.”
And the facility officially now has a mascot – Cindy, a mixed-breed who is one of their success stories.
Cindy is a former stray that has taken very well to training by AMF staff, including being comfortable in crowds and around unfamiliar people.
Soon she will be bestowed the title of “Deputy Ranger” – complete with her own vest – and will make appearances at local schools and community events, with staff on-hand to help give tips and advice on responsible pet ownership.
She’s very calm and friendly, and people will be encouraged to come up and give her a pat whenever she makes a public appearance.