Welcome to Our Shelter

All animals deserve respect, dignity and compassion

We are passionate about animals, our shelter is dedicated to rehoming stray and surrendered animals.

Shelter Hours

Monday to Saturday: 10am – 2pm. Sunday: closed. Public holidays: 10 am to midday.
Adoptions by appointment.

we have found
2358+
homes for animals since 2017
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How to Adopt

Adopting with MAAW

Are you ready to welcome a rescue animal into your life? The journey to finding your new fur-ever friend begins right here. Our adoption process is designed to match you with the perfect companion.

The Adoption Process

1

Browse Animals

Look at our animal profiles online, if any animals interest you, complete and submit your pre-registration.

2

Next Step

Once your pre-registration is received, one of our staff members will contact you to discuss your application.

3

Meet and Greet

If you’re a good match for the animal and vice versa, we will arrange a no-obligation meet and greet for you. After this introduction, we give you time to think about it and let us know your feelings the next day.

4

Adoption

We can offer a two-week trial and give assistance and guidance during that time, should you have any settling-in issues. If the adoption doesn’t work out, we will take your rescue animal back for a full refund within those two weeks.

Pre-register Now

Complete the pre-registration form and click the submit button. Please note: pre-registering does not commit you to an adoption.

Complete your details to pre-register now
Once we receive your submission we will be in touch to discuss your application in more detail.
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A crowd of dogs near a purple wall in Castlemaine
Adopted

We have found homes for 950+ animals since 2017

150
+
Adopted in
2019
124
+
Adopted in
2020
126
+
Adopted in
2021
173
+
Adopted in
2022
191
+
Adopted in
2023

We’ve been reuniting animals with their new families since 2017. Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers are passionate about all creatures great and small, and we work with the community to support the cause of animal welfare for domestic pets and native wildlife.

Our Story
Learn More

Pet Ownership Information

Council Pets and Animals Info

Pet registration, lost animals, livestock, and more: info available from Mount Alexander Shire Council.

Learn More

How to Care for Injured Wildlife

Injured wildlife require immediate care and must be taken to the nearest available vet clinic. More info available from Wildlife Victoria.

Learn More
Ginger cat in cage at MAAW Mount Alexander Animal Welfare
Donate

We need your help to keep doing our invaluable work

Your support helps us shelter and care for lost and surrendered animals until they find their forever home. This is not possible without your ongoing support.

Donate Now