PETRESCUE affiliated rescue groups are set to pay a visit to PETstock Mount Gambier next month to help rescue pets and find families that will love them.
The initiative, led by PETstock’s charity foundation PETstock Assist, and its major charity partner, PetRescue, aims to raise awareness of pet adoption as part of their National Pet Adoption Day.
Gyton Grantley, one-time mobster and host of Channel Ten’s Pooches at Play, has thrown his weight behind the national campaign that encourages Australians to adopt rather than shop for pets.
Mr Grantley, who grew up with pets and now looks after the adorable chocolate labrador George, said that close to 40pc of homes have pets and that he hopes to encourage as many owners as possible to consider adopting their next animal, instead of purchasing.
“The tide is turning when it comes to pet adoption thanks to the hard work of rescue organisations and the passionate people behind them,” he said.
“Increasing numbers of Australians are realising there are tens of thousands of homeless pets out there waiting for someone to love them, and they’re choosing to adopt.
“But there’s still a lot more work to do and I’m encouraging Mount Gambier locals to attend National Pet Adoption Day and PETstock Mount Gambier to learn more about local rescue pets and maybe even meet some beautiful pets up for adoption.”
Every year, approximately 20,000 healthy pets find themselves homeless in Australia’s pounds and shelters – a statistic PETstock and PetRescue are determined to change.
PETstock chief executive officer Shane Young said if just one in five pet seekers chose to adopt a pet instead of shop, pet homelessness in Australia would end.
“Our goal is for every rescue pet to find their forever home, and we’re getting closer,” he said.
“PetRescue figures show the adoption of pets is increasing year-on-year, demonstrating how saving every homeless pet in Australia is possible, but we still have a way to go.
“Last National Pet Adoption Day saw more than 500 pets find forever homes and we’re hoping to increase on this figure in 2018.”
PetRescue co-founder Vickie Davy said people may be surprised by who they find at National Pet Adoption Day.
“Pets of all types, sizes and ages will be available for adoption so everyone is sure to find their perfect match,” she said.
“The beauty of adoption is that people can adopt a pet that’s the perfect fit for them.
“The rescue group can give you an overview of the animal’s behaviour and personality so you know exactly what you’re going to get – great for those wanting an animal but who may not have time to raise and train a young puppy or kitten.
“Adopted pets are filled with unlimited love, affection and gratitude for their new homes, they make great lifelong companions and can teach valuable lessons to children on the importance of responsibility and empathy.”
Before joining their forever family, adopted pets are desexed, microchipped, vaccinated and treated for parasites, as well as having undergone a comprehensive veterinary assessment.
The Mount Gambier event will take place from 10am to 2pm.
