17 Feb 2025
With nearly 1 in 5 Australian households welcoming a new pet in recent years, the Petstock Foundation is calling on Australians to create a better future for pets this National Pet Adoption Month by considering adoption. Currently, more than 10,000 animals, ranging from cats and dogs to guinea pigs, birds, reptiles, and even larger pets like horses, are in search of loving homes.
According to the Petstock Pet Parent Report 2024, the most significant barrier to adoption
is uncertainty about a pet’s history, with 53% of prospective adopters concerned about
behavioural or medical issues. Education is key to overcoming these barriers.
Animal Behaviourist Lara Shannon explains, “Many rescue pets, including dogs, cats, and smaller animals, are already house-trained and have basic manners. Most of the time, adopting a pet isn’t starting from scratch—it’s about building on the great traits they already have.”
Lara also encourages adopters not to overlook larger pets or bonded pairs. "For example, larger dogs don’t necessarily need more exercise than small dogs—it depends on their
breed, age and personality.. And bonded pairs are perfect for those worried about leaving
pets alone during the day, as they keep each other company.”
In a country where fewer than 10% of rental properties are pet-friendly, the campaign also
acknowledges some of the accessibility issues for renters to adopt pets, but is happy to see
some positive changes to policy.
Head of the Petstock Foundation, Jessica Curtis says, “Imagine a future where every family
can include pets, no matter their housing situation. This is essential for the millions of
Australians who want pets to be part of their lives.”
“With housing situations in mind, National Pet Adoption Month is a chance for Australians to
consider not only traditional pets like dogs and cats, but also smaller companions like guinea
pigs, birds and reptiles that may be easier for renters to adopt. Together, we can help create
a better future for all pets and people,” says Curtis.
With 97% of Australians agreeing that pets positively impact their lives and 95% noting that
pets improve their mental health, it’s clear that the human-animal bond is vital to wellbeing.
Additionally, cats are increasingly thriving in unconventional environments, with 53% living
in share houses and 51% in households with five or more people.
“Adoption doesn’t just change the life of the animal,” says Jessica. “It enriches families, and individual lives. It’s about building a better future together.”
In a 2022 study about pet ownership, it was found Australia's pet population was at 28.7
million with pets outnumbering people that year. Pets could be found in 6.9 million
households, making up 69 per cent of all homes in Australia1.
The Petstock Foundation exists to strengthen the rewarding bond between pets and
people and has found homes for more than 41,000 rescue pets since its inception in 2007.
Animal lovers are encouraged to visit their local Petstock store during March to find a rescue
pet that needs a loving home. Across National Pet Adoption Weekend, Saturday 22nd and
Sunday 23rd March, select stores will have rescue pets available for adoption or fostering in
store.
To empower a better future for all pets, you can donate to the Petstock Foundation in-store
or online. Visit www.petstock.com.au/adopt to find out more.
About the Petstock Foundation
The Petstock Foundation is a registered charity that exists to empower a better future for
pets and people. Since its inception in 2007, the Foundation has raised more than $14
million to date and has found homes for more than 41,000 rescue pets. Petstock Foundation
is contributed to by the fundraising initiatives of the Petstock Group, donations by business
partners and team members as they come together for the pets that inspire them. 100% of
funds raised go towards the Foundation to support its charitable partners and projects with
all operating costs covered by the business.