On Saturday 18 March, PETstock Noosa will play host to its local animal rescue organisation as part of National Pet Adoption Month, an initiative of The Petspiration Foundation (formally PETstock Assist) with support from event partner PetRescue.
With one in five families adding a new dog or cat to the family unit in recent years, the Petspiration Foundation is encouraging Australians to Adopt Different this National Pet Adoption Month by considering a pet most in need, with more than 7400 animals currently looking for a forever home.
Sherralea Cassidy, Petspiration Foundation’s charity and events lead, said the charity was on a mission to have cats, large dogs, adolescent dogs and bonded pairs that can’t be separated, adopted as they remained the most vulnerable in 2023.
“All pets deserve a safe and loving home, and National Pet Adoption Month is the perfect opportunity to meet pets searching for a new family,” Sherralea said.
Natural disasters, increasing living costs, inflation and access to housing are impacting pet ownership and leading to surrenders of pets. PetRescue founder and director, Vickie Davy, is seeing great dogs coming into rescue care, ready for a new home, even if some training is needed.
“The fact is that only a small percentage of pets are surrendered due to their behaviour which – like any animal – can be negated through dedicated training,” Vickie said.
Animal behaviourist, Dr Kate Mornement, said, many rescue pets have been house pets in the past and are already toilet trained, with basic manners so you’re not starting from scratch – it’s about reinforcing the existing desired behaviours and building on these.
“There are so many options when it comes to adoption. Cats are wonderfully intelligent animals, fantastic for any size home, and can be easily trained (just like dogs) using positive reinforcement,” Kate said.
“I also encourage would-be rescue pet owners not to be put off by a large dog because you think it will need more exercise, as it is very much dependent on the breed, age and individual personality of the dog. For those concerned about being in the office and leaving their pet, a bonded pair could be the answer as they have each other for company.”
The Petspiration Foundation exists to strengthen the rewarding bond between pets and people and has found homes for more than 13,000 rescue pets since its inception in 2007. 6.9 million Australian households currently are pet owners.
Animal lovers are encouraged to visit petstock.com.au in March to find a pet that needs a forever home. On Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 March head to selected PETstock stores to meet rescue pets available for adoption or fostering.
SAVE THE DATE
What: PETstock Noosa’s National Pet Adoption Day
When: Saturday 18 March
Time: 10am – 2pm
Where: PETstock Noosa, Noosa Homemaker Centre, 18 Thomas Street, Noosaville.
Who: Local partner rescue groups will be available for expert advice, with rescue pets available for adoption or fostering
