Families wanting pets should adopt a pet, don’t shop for one. Photo: stock
Families wanting to welcome a new cat or dog into their household this festive season are urged to “adopt, don’t shop” and help pets in council pounds and rehoming facilities find homes.
Adopting from a pound or rehoming facility rather than buying from a pet shop or breeder can help take the burden off council pounds and rehoming facilities which are continuing to experience challenges with high numbers of animals surrendered, according to the NSW Government
Data from the Office of Local Government shows more than 3837 dogs and 4473 cats found new homes in NSW after they were adopted through council pounds in the financial year ending June 30, 2024.
To adopt a pet, contact your local council for information on council pounds, or visit the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League, Cat Protection Society or another approved rehoming organisation.
In the lead-up to the festive season, current and prospective pet owners are also being urged to ensure their pets are microchipped and registered.
Ensuring your details are correct is an important part of responsible pet ownership and can help reunite owners with pets if they go missing during a family holiday or get spooked by fireworks.
Registration is free-of-charge for desexed cats and dogs adopted from pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.
Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig says: “I’d strongly encourage anyone hoping to find a pet dog or cat under the tree this year to consider adopting.
“When it comes to Christmas presents, it’s hard to think of a better gift then giving a pet a second chance at life,” he says.
“There are many cats and dogs in council pounds and rehoming facilities and I hope everyone looking to buy a pet will consider adoption instead.
“It’s important to remember that owning a pet is a significant responsibility. I urge anyone who does get a pet for Christmas to make sure they’re ready to take on that commitment.”
