Heartless thieves have stolen hundreds of dollars in donations from a Melbourne lost dogs home as staff prepare for the busiest time of the year.
Burglars smashed through several doors and a locked cabinet at the North Melbourne shelter overnight Wednesday, stealing about $1000 worth of cash donations waiting to be processed.
The money was destined to support the hundreds of dogs and cats expected to flood the shelter - which survives on donations - during the busy Christmas/New Year period.
North Melbourne Lost Dogs' Home managing director Graeme Smith said it was the first time in 20 years the shelter had been targeted by thieves and came as staff prepared for up to 500 dogs and cats to be brought in each week over the holiday season.
"It's unbelievable - it's a setback to our staff who have worked hard throughout the whole year," Dr Smith told AAP.
"It's an unbelievably busy time you know, we've got lots of dogs and cats coming in, we've got lots of dogs and cats going out, just to have a robbery like this is very disappointing, it's just a waste of resources."
Dr Smith said up to $4000 damage had been caused during the break-in.
Insurance was expected to cover the damage bill and the stolen money.
Already generous donors touched by news of the theft have pledged cash to help the shelter recoup the money.
The donations are timely.
The next few weeks are the busiest time for the lost dogs home, with New Year's Eve fireworks spooking family pets, scores of animals surrendered or dumped and council dog catchers not working on public holidays.
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