Throughout March, PETstock Benalla will host its annual National Pet Adoption Month.
The initiative is organised by the Petspiration Foundation (formally PETstock Assist) with support from event partner PetRescue.
With one in five families acquiring a new dog or cat in recent years, the Petspiration Foundation is encouraging people to adopt different this National Pet Adoption Month by considering a pet most in need, with more than 7400 animals currently looking for a forever home.
Petspiration Foundation’s charity and events lead Sherralea Cassidy said the charity was on a mission to have cats, large dogs, adolescent dogs and bonded pairs that could not be separated, adopted as they remained 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 surrenders of pets.
PetRescue founder and director Vickie Davy said a great number of dogs were coming into rescue care ready for a new home, even if some training was 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 Davey said.
Animal behaviourist Kate Mornement said many rescue pets had been house pets in the past and were already toilet trained, with basic manners, so you were not starting from scratch.
“It’s about reinforcing the existing desired behaviours and building on these,” Dr Mornement said.
“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.
“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 are pet owners.
Animal lovers are encouraged to visit petstock.com.au in March to find a pet that needs a forever home.