She was removed from her owner and taken to RSPCA’s Batemans Bay pound where she was put up for adoption. 

Nine-year-old Inca was essentially a “dog on death row” when Animal Welfare League Far South Coast volunteer Wendy Cook passed her cage. 

“When dogs are older and are more high maintenance, as Inca is with her thick coat, the chance of adoption drops significantly,” Ms Cook said. 

To avoid euthanisation, Ms Cook brought Inca back to Bega with her and arranged a foster home with Brian and Joanna Ewert. 

Five weeks later, Inca has secured a trial with a new owner through the team at AWL FSC and is making steps toward her “forever home”. 

Inca is just one of over 3000 animals rescued and re-homed by volunteers of AWL FSC since 2000. 

To raise awareness of the work that AWL does for canine companions of the Bega Valley, Spiral Gallery in Bega is opening an exhibition on Chinese New Year, February 16 at 5pm.

Fittingly, the 2018 celebration welcomes in the year of the dog. 

A total of 67 artworks from 53 artists from along the coast will interpret all things dog in their contribution to the exhibition. 

Artist Keith Coleman said the works were as personal and unique as each person’s relationship to their animal. 

“We’ve got a striking collection of paintings, models and photographs, everyone has approached this in a different way,” he said. 

“If you look back in art, especially western art, there is a long history of dogs in portraiture and paintings.”

AWL FSC president Kerri Brady will open the exhibition, and awards will be presented by judge Kim Falkenmire. 

The Year of the Dog exhibition will be followed up by events at SCPA Markets in Littleton Gardens on Friday, February 23 and March 2. 

Exhibiting artists will conduct on the spot portraits of dogs at the market events for owners to take home.

AWL FSC volunteers will be on hand to discuss responsible adoption and ownership, and how to become a member or foster carer.  

Ms Cook said it was important people understood the importance of de-sexing, micro-chipping and vaccinating their pets. 

“We also want to let people know we are here to support them and their pets stay happy and healthy,” she said.

Volunteers from AWL FSC will be on hand to give advice to pet owners on managing dogs in hot weather, grooming, food, exercise and training.