‘Adopt Different’ this National Pet Adoption Month

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This March, The Petspiration Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month is back to encourage Australians to ‘Adopt Different’ by considering pets most in need. The Petspiration Foundation was founded in 2007 and has since raised more than $7.7 million and found homes for more than 13,000 rescue pets. 

Why ‘Adopt Different’?

There are more than 7,400 animals that are currently looking for a fur-ever home, with cats, large dogs, adolescent dogs and bonded pairs (pets that can’t be separated) being the most vulnerable this year. It might be surprising, but less than 10% of animals are surrendered due to behavioural issues. Most animals are placed in shelters because their owner’s circumstances have changed, leaving them with no choice but to surrender their beloved pet. These reasons include but are not limited to rising living costs placing pressure on families, deterioration in health and changes in employment status.

Let’s leave stereotypes behind and ‘Adopt Different’ this year by giving rescue pets a chance at a new life. Why not consider a pet different from what you had in mind? You may want to add a dog to your family when a cat may be better suited to your lifestyle. Or, you may not think you’ll be able to support a larger dog’s fitness levels, but they might not need as much exercise as you think! It all depends on their breed, age and individual personality, so make sure you keep an open mind.

Head to participating PETstock stores on the 18th and 19th of March for their National Pet Adoption weekend to meet pets available for adoption. You’ll also be able to chat with rescue group representatives and learn more about how pet foster care saves lives. And, who knows, you might leave with a new family member in tow!

Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Pet

Dr Kate Mornement, a Certified Applied Animal Behaviourist, shares some of the benefits of adopting over shopping, which include: 

  • You can find the perfect fit – rescue groups can give you an overview of the animal’s behaviour and personality, so you know exactly what you’re going to get and can find a pet suited to your lifestyle. 
  • Already trained – many rescue pets have been house pets in the past, meaning they come toilet trained and have basic manners, so you’re not starting from scratch. 
  • More mellow – older animals tend to be more mellow (and less destructive!) than a young pet and can be a better fit for families with young children. 
  • More love to give – abandoned pets are filled with unconditional love, affection and gratitude for their new homes and are eager to become part of a loving family. 
  • Additionally, adopting a pet can teach valuable lessons to children on the importance of responsibility, empathy and caring for those in need. 
  • Save two lives – the life of your rescue pet and the life of another animal that can now make it to rescue. 
  • It’s cost-effective – rescue pets undergo a vet check and behaviour assessment before joining their forever family and are de-sexed, vaccinated, wormed and treated for fleas. Also, their adoption fee is typically much less than purchasing a puppy from a breeder.

We can all do our part this National Pet Adoption month! Whether you’re looking for a new furry family member, able to temporarily foster a rescue pet or help spread the word to raise awareness, every effort counts.