By Pte Simone Heyer
PEOPLE who love pets will be pleased to learn that the RSPCA and the Australian War Memorial (AWM) intend to honour animals in war by way of a memorial in the grounds of the AWM.

Work has not yet started and funds are sought by the RSPCA to aid in construction.

A substantial donation has already been made by the Australian Army Trackers and War Dogs Association (AATWDA).

Secretary of the AATWDA Bob Bettany said the memorial would fulfil an important role.

“It recognises the huge contribution of all animals in all conflicts from the beginnings of the ADF,” he said.

“It’s about paying respect to the relationship between man and animal in war and it’s as relevant today as it ever has been.”

The total cost of the memorial is estimated at $340,000.

National President of the RSPCA Hugh Wirth said major corporate bodies were asked to dig deep to help raise the money.

“RSPCA relies almost entirely on donations and support of the general public – we’re enormously grateful for the public’s support and we recognise our duty to use fund on projects to which they were donated,” he said.

“This is why we have gone out of our way to keep our fundraising for the memorial separate from our general fundraising.”

• Donation enquiries can be directed to Rachel Baker on (03) 9221 0070.

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