(Community Recognition Statement, 1.16pm 13 November 2013, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

I acknowledge the great work done by Monika Biernacki and Monika's Doggie Rescue, a no-kill shelter that she founded in 2001. My husband and I adopted Max, a whippet foxie cross from Monika's last year and he has become a much-loved and valued addition to our family and my electorate office.

It is thanks to the dedication and commitment of the volunteers and foster carers who work with rescue organisations that hundreds of dogs like Max are saved from death row in pounds each year. At the Doggiewood shelter, abandoned dogs get vet health checks, are microchipped, heartworm tested, vaccinated and desexed before being found homes with caring and responsible owners who are assessed as suitable and who learn what their dog needs. Donations and volunteers make this happen, and I encourage everyone to support shelters like Monika's that work to reduce the number of abandoned dogs who are killed or suffering. Those wishing to support Monika's Doggie Rescue service and homeless pets can join me in participating in the Give a Dog a Bone Christmas appeal by donating food, toys and pet products at collection points throughout Sydney, including my electorate office, between 25 November and 15 December.