Keep up to date with everything happening at Council, from projects and major works to news and events. Sign up to our monthly newsletter now.
Published on 20 January 2026
The Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) is reflecting on an outstanding year, with hundreds of cats and dogs successfully rehomed across the region in 2025.
Bathurst Mayor, Cr Robert Taylor, commended the team at BARC for their dedicated efforts in rehoming pets across Bathurst and beyond, particularly when operating over capacity.
“BARC had a hugely successful year in 2025. Despite starting last year managing numbers well above the facility’s capacity, countless lost animals across Bathurst were reunited with their families or adopted by new, loving homes. Last year, a staggering 249 lost dogs and 12 cats were returned to their owners. Plus, an impressive 173 dogs and 170 cats were adopted from BARC, with an additional 48 dogs and 16 cats rehomed through trusted rescue partners.
“BARC is a vital lifeline for animals across our region. At the peak of intake pressures last year they were caring for 59 dogs and an unprecedented 118 cats. This was nearly triple their feline capacity. However, thanks to microchip records that allowed owners to be reached and the many successful adoptions, BARC has entered 2026 with numbers safely within capacity.
“Among the 173 dogs rehomed last year were several long-term residents, marking particularly heartwarming milestones. Max, who arrived in November 2023, and Roxy, who joined BARC in February 2024, both found their forever homes after extended stays. However, two long‑term dogs, Declan and Dozer, remain at BARC. Declan was left in BARC’s overnight pens in April 2024, while Dozer has been with the shelter since January 2025. Despite their imposing size, both dogs are known for their affectionate, gentle personalities and are still looking for their new homes.
“If you’re looking to add a pet to your family, please give the team at BARC a call on 6333 6190 to arrange an appointment and provide one of their residents with a caring home. Additionally, to all pet owners across Bathurst, this is a reminder to ensure you microchip and register your pets. In the instance they ever become lost, this ensures the team at BARC can easily help them find their way back to you,” said Mayor Taylor.
Head to Council’s website below to view all animals that are currently available for adoption:
https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/Services/Animals-for-Adoption
Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer
P: 02 6333 6179 M: 0448 685 340 E: genevieve.green@bathurst.nsw.gov.au