Community
11 February, 2023
‘Adopt Different’ this National Pet Adoption Month
PETSTOCK Cairns and Smithfield are urging locals to ‘Adopt Different’ and give a pet most in need a brighter future.
On March 18-19, PETstock Cairns and Smithfield will host its local animal rescue organisation as part of National Pet Adoption Month, an initiative of The Petspiration Foundation with support from PetRescue.
With one in five families acquiring a new dog or cat to add to the family unit in recent years, the Petspiration Foundation is encouraging Australians to ‘Adopt Different’ this National Pet Adoption Month by considering a pet most in need, with more than 7,400 animals currently looking for a forever home.
Petspiration Foundation’s Charity and Events Lead, Sherralea Cassidy, said the charity is on a mission to have cats, large dogs, adolescent dogs and bonded pairs that cannot be separated, 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,” Ms Cassidy said.
Natural disasters, increasing living costs, inflation and access to housing are impacting pet ownership and leading to the surrender of pets.
PetRescue Founder and Director Vickie Davy said great dogs are 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,” Ms Davy said.
Animal Behaviourist, Dr Kate Mornement, said many rescue pets have been house pets in the past and are already toilet trained, with basic manners - it’s about reinforcing the existing desired behaviours and building on these.
“There are so many options when it comes to adoption. Cats are wonderfully intelligent animals, fantastic for any size home, and can be easily trained (just like dogs) using positive reinforcement,” Dr Mornement said.
“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.”
On March 18-19, Cairns residents can visit PETstock stores to meet rescue pets available for adoption or fostering.
For more information, visit petstock.com.au
