21 Aug 2025
Each year, it’s estimated nearly 400,000* animals enter Australian shelters and pounds, including thousands of adoptable pets relying on stretched rescue groups for food, warmth and care. Donations of essential supplies are vital to keeping them comfortable while they hold on to hope for permanent homes.
With cold weather sweeping the country this winter, the Petstock Foundation in collaboration with Petstock suppliers donated hundreds of winter coats to help rescue pets stay warm while they wait to be adopted.
Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation said, “One of the biggest challenges rescue charities face as temperatures drop is keeping pets warm. Winter is one of the toughest times for rescue groups and the animals in their care, with colder weather driving a critical need for warmth, supplies and support,” said Naomi.
“Through our No Nude Pets initiative, every winter coat donated by our partners helps to keep a rescue pet warm and comfortable as they await a second chance at finding a loving home – empowering a better future, one coat, one act of care at a time.”
Rising cost-of-living pressures are forcing more pet surrenders, resulting in more animals in care and increasing strain on organisations, carers, and already stretched resources.
“In addition to financial support, donations of essential products like winter coats and apparel make a real difference – bringing comfort to pets in need, relief to their carers and vital assistance to charities facing greater challenges over winter.”
31 rescue groups nationally received the winter coats donation, including, VIC: Victorian Bull
Terrier Rescue Inc, Forever Friends Animal Rescue, Greyt Greys Rescue, Starting Over Dog
Rescue and Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) QLD: DM Rescue, The Collective, Coffs
Harbour, Runaway Bay, The Not Forgotten Ones and Capricorn Animal Aid, NSW: Pound Patrol, Lost & Found Pets Illawarra Inc, Fetching Dogs, Animal Welfare League, Whisker Woods Sanctuary, Central Coast Animal (SoCares Rescue) and Greyhound Rescue Mission, W A: WA Grey Hounds, Safe Bunbury and Greyhound WA, TAS: Dogs Home Tasmania, SA: Safe Pet Safe Families
“We are proud to support our mission of creating brighter futures for rescue pets.
“Knowing our coats can help make the colder months a little more bearable for vulnerable animals doing it tough is something we’re proud of,” said Naomi.
The Petstock Foundation is passionate about supporting the adoption of pets and over the past 11 years has helped find loving homes for more than 42,000 rescue pets across Australia and New Zealand. During the Foundation’s National Pet Adoption Month in March 2025, the Petstock Foundation raised $364,847 for rescue groups across Australia and New Zealand.
How to support the Petstock Foundation
Pet lovers can donate at the Petstock counter in-store or online www.petstock.com.au
100% of funds donated to the Foundation supports its charitable partners and projects
like with all operating costs covered by the business.
Volunteer or foster through your local rescue group to provide temporary homes and care for pets in need
Donate essential supplies. Check in with your local rescue group first to see what’s most
needed to keep pets warm and cared for.
Caring for Rescue Pets Tips:
Rescue pets often endure challenging conditions and emotional strain while waiting for,
or settling into, their new homes. Providing them with warm, properly fitted apparel is a
simple yet powerful way to support their wellbeing and show they’re cared for during this
vulnerable stage of their journey.
Ensure coats and sweaters fit snugly without restricting movement to avoid
added stress - especially as pets adjust to their new homes.
Choose gentle materials like fleece or wool that provide warmth without irritating
sensitive skin.
Protect key areas. Cover the chest, back, and belly, focusing on small, senior, or
short-haired pets who are most vulnerable.
Monitor for discomfort. Rescue pets may hide signs of stress – watch closely for
rubbing, pinching, or overheating.
Top top: Offer extra comfort. Combine apparel with gentle handling and quiet
spaces to help pets feel safe as they settle into their new homes.
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 42,000 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.