T.L.C. to the rescue

Allison Ellis, Pauline Roberts and Craig Roberts and dog Poppy. Photo by Damjan Janevski.

By Alesha Capone

Every dog who comes through the doors of T.L.C. Rescue Inc has its day.

The Hoppers Crossing-based animal rescue group, which is a registered charity, has helped hundreds of dogs find loving new homes during the past four years.

Pauline Roberts is the founder of T.L.C. and also a member of its committee, along with her husband Craig Roberts and friend Allison Ellis.

Mr and Ms Roberts said the organisation took in dogs from pounds, surrendered dogs and ex-puppy farm dogs.

“What I enjoy most is watching a dog come in, watching them progress to be the best they can be and go to a new home – we prepare them for the rest of their lives,” she said.

All dogs rescued by T.L.C. are de-sexed, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed, and undergo surgery if they need it.

Afterwards, the dogs stay with foster carers until they are ready to be re-homed.

Ms Roberts said she was grateful for her “awesome team” of volunteers and foster carers, including Ms Ellis.

Ms Ellis said she loved helping dogs, although it was tough to say goodbye when they were re-homed.

However, one of Ms Ellis’ foster dogs – a labrador and German shepherd-cross named Maggie – ended up staying.

“My daughter fell in love with her and she fell in love with my daughter,” Ms Ellis said.

T.L.C. has a screening process for everyone who applies to adopt a dog, to ensure they go to the best home possible.

Details: www.tlcrescue.org.au