This March, locals are being encouraged to celebrate National Pet Adoption Month with PETstock.
On Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 March, PETstock Pakenham will play host to its local animal rescue organisation.
National Pet Adoption Month is an initiative of the Petspiration Foundation with support from event partner PetRescue.
With 1 in 5 families acquiring a new furry friend for their family, the Petspiration Foundation is urging adopters to “Adopt Different” by considering those pets most in need.
There are more than 7,400 pets currently looking for their forever homes.
Sherralea Cassidy, Petspiration Foundation’s Charity and Events Lead, says the charity is on a mission to have cats, large dogs, adolescent dogs and bonded pet pairs adopted, as they remain 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.” says Sherralea.
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.” says Vickie.
Animal Behaviourist, Dr Kate Mornement, says, 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,” says Kate.
“Cats are wonderfully intelligent animals, fantastic for any size home, and can be easily trained (just like dogs) using positive reinforcement.
“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.
