Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Becomes A Lifeline For Lost Pets Across Mackay

What began as one woman’s simple act of kindness has grown into a lifeline for lost and abandoned animals across Mackay.

When local animal lover Taylah Kolaric first bought a microchip scanner online, she simply wanted to help reunite lost dogs with their families.

“I was always seeing lost dog posts on Facebook and it was concerning to me how much pound fees were,” she said.

“So, I volunteered on community pages to scan dogs if someone could hold them. That way, I could call the owners and return the dog without the need for pound fees… because that can make or break a family.”

Little did she know, a stray found wandering near the Peak Downs Highway, would soon change everything.

“Her microchip said her name was Paintbrush,” Taylah recalled.

“I thought she looked more like a Lucy, and a few days later, when I reached the breeder, I learned her owners didn’t want her anymore.”

Lucy, as she became known, tested positive for heartworm. Determined to help her recover, Taylah began creating custom pet ID tags to raise funds for her treatment.

“We managed to raise all the funds we needed, and Lucy’s now heartworm negative and living happily with her new family,” she said.

“That’s how Lucky Tags began — I never really meant to get into rescue, but it found me.”

From those humble beginnings, Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue has grown into an incorporated association with a dedicated team of volunteers.

“We’ve probably rehomed over 200 dogs so far,” Taylah said.

“Right now, we have about 30 in care, including some going through heartworm treatment, which can cost around $1,500 each.”

Every tag sold, engraved with a pet’s name and phone number, helps fund the rescue’s vet bills, desexing, and medical care.

“We make great affordable pet tags, and 100% of the profits go to our pets in need,” Taylah said.

“It’s much quicker to have your phone number on your pet’s collar than to rely on someone to take your dog to a vet or the pound.”

The group now hopes to expand its fundraising and foster network.

“We’re always looking for more carers, especially for short-term or puppy care,” Taylah added.

For Taylah and her team, it’s all about compassion and community.

“There’s really no excuse for irresponsible pet ownership these days,” she said.

“Desex your pets, keep them safe, and if you ever need help – our inbox is open.”

To order a tag or learn more about fostering, visit Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue on Facebook.

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Taylah and her team of dedicated volunteers are giving Mackay’s lost and abandoned dogs a second chance through Lucy’s Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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