With the current economic climate leaving many families struggling financially there has been an overwhelming demand for animal rescue and rehoming services in the Peel region.
As the need for these services grow Peekaboo Rescue, which rehomes dogs and provides individualised human support services, had to open at a bigger premises on Saturday.
Peekaboo Rescue secretary Kylie Hewitt said the move to a larger building was due to recent higher demand.
"There's certainly been an increase in abandoned and surrendered dogs during 2020," she said.
"The demand for rescue services has increased as people have lost their source of income and can no longer afford to keep their pets.
"We've also had an increase in surrenders from absolutely loving families who heartbreakingly, for whatever reason, can no longer keep their pet.
"The community support aspect of our programs has also increased with requests for human emergency food assistance and material goods such as winter clothing and blankets."
Saving a dog not only changes the dog's life, but also it's new human.
- Peekaboo Rescue secretary Kylie Hewitt
Relying solely on grant acquisitions, donations and fundraising to provide these much-needed services, a new dog op shop has also been added to the building, which will raise necessary funds for Peekaboo Rescue.
With previously adopted dogs popping in for a visit throughout the grand opening on Saturday, Mrs Hewitt said there were plenty of happy tears.
"One of the dogs, Violet was so broken but we don't turn away dogs in need - She had ear and skin diseases, her skin was burnt in places from infection and she had rotting teeth.
"We sourced an amazing foster family for her during her healing period, so psychologically she has come along in leaps and bounds.
"For her to be happily out amongst people like she was at the open day is testament to the wonderful love and care she's receiving from her new family. She trusts again. There were tears all round when Violet popped in."
Now offering longer access hours and more storage, the Peekaboo Rescue team will be able to assist in rehoming more dogs than ever before.
"Saving a dog not only changes the dog's life, but also it's new human," Mrs Hewitt said.
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If you'd like to volunteer or enquire about any of the services available visit 3/9 Slade Street, Greenfields from Monday to Friday, at 10am to 2pm.