Noosa’s love of rescue pets grows

A rescue dog with their new owner.

PETstock Noosa will host its local animal rescue organisation on Saturday 13 March as part of PETstock Assist’s annual National Pet Adoption Day initiative.

For the past six years, PETstock Assist has been changing the lives of rescue pets and humans through its National Pet Adoption Day campaign.

To date the initiative has rehomed more than 12,000 pets – in just six days.

Now, with Australia’s love of rescue pets and commitment to breaking the cycle of homelessness at an all-time high, PETstock Assist has extended the initiative into a month-long event, National Pet Adoption Month, to find even more pets homes, educate the masses and celebrate the entire rescue community.

Once again, Olympian, television personality and animal welfare advocate, Giaan Rooney, has teamed up to support the initiative and educate Australians on the benefits of adoption, this time with a new rescue companion by her side.

“At the beginning of 2020 we began the search for a new furry family member, and it wasn’t long until I met our beautiful Daschund x Kelpie cross puppy, Roy,” Giaan said.

“We had originally considered adopting an older dog, however when we met Roy, we knew he was the perfect addition to our family.

“Adopting Roy has been so rewarding. He’s formed a great bond with my children, who already understand the important responsibilities of caring for an animal.

“Rescue animals hold a special place in my heart and I’m so excited to be supporting PETstock Assist for the inaugural month-long initiative to help even more pets find their special family.”

PETstock Assist continues to encourage all Australian’s to Adopt Different this March – to adopt a new way of thinking when it comes to rescue pets. To reconsider any biases, dismiss unfair stereotypes and make considered, sustainable choices on what pet is truly the best fit for their lifestyle.

PETstock Assist Charity and Events Lead, Jessica Curtis, wants everyone, not just adoptive parents, to think differently about what they can do to help break the cycle of pet homelessness.

“Those who choose to adopt not shop play a critical role in reducing the number of animals in need,” she said.

“Not only by providing a loving home and second chance, but also leading by example.”

“Our rescue parents take the time to learn a pet’s unique personality to find their perfect match, they make a long-term commitment, and ultimately, build a relationship that improves a pet’s life and their own.

“After all time high adoption rates in 2020, this year is truly a celebration of these owners and the commitment they’ve made to their animals who we know, are all unique and different, and that’s why we love them.

“But it’s not just pet parents who are changing the lives of rescue animals in Australia. There are countless rescue groups, volunteers and foster carers right across the nation who are all helping break the cycle.”

Animal welfare advocate and TV Presenter, Lara Shannon, said she’s thrilled how far the adoption landscape has come in Australia.

“While there’s still a lot of work to be done to eliminate pet homelessness, thousands of animals have been lucky enough to get a second chance at a loving home since the inaugural event in 2013,” Lara said.

For more details on PETstock Assist’s National Pet Adoption Month visit petstock.com.au in March. As always there will be an event held at selected participating PETstock stores across Australia on Saturday 13 March.

With the unprecedented adoptions of 2020, the month-long initiative will also be focusing on education and training tips for animals and owners to build the best possible relationship for the future as Australia transitions to a COVID normal with more time spent apart.