I am an Australian senior returning home with 2 companion cats after 16 years in India. My only income is my age pension. The total cost for animals, health preparations,flights, permits, quarantine,is near $9500. I had pay part of the cost such as preparation of the animals in India, permits,travel and quarantine in Malaysia. We are now in Kuala Lumpur for 180 days as prescribed by the Australian Quarantine.



All expenditure by this campaign is not for me but more my pets. Receipts for payments will be circulated to donors.



The total cost, if everything is approved, for the Australian Quarantine station is $3326 + Permit 960.

The cost of Quarantine includes a tax of $1200 per cat. I have pleaded to Department of Agriculture for exception of the Tax $1200 or a discount , but it was rejected.For an Australian to return home with used household goods, a tax is not impose. My companion cats have been with me since babies. Their ages now are 6.5 and 5 yeas and sterilised.



Why a companion animal is not treated as part of the household?? in particular for an aged person.



I have looked into given one for adoption, as in Malaysia, contrary to India, people have pet cats,though it breaks my heart. However there are many babies waiting for homes at each animal shelter. As is to be understand everyone prefer kittens to older cats.



My animals are ordinary cats, that I rescued when babies. I could not leave them in the streets of India.



I received the Advance Australia Award in 1995 for my contribution in Community Services. I have done voluntary work in India also during the past 16 years, orphanages, home for the elderly, maternity wards and similar, as well of research on needs among people living in small villages.



At present I need support....in the future I may have to support others.

Please assist on keeping my animals a life.