The RSPCA is on a mission to ‘Clear the Shelters’ this weekend (February 22-24) with adoption fees reduced to $29 for all animals great and small in care across the country. The goal is to re-home as many animals as possible over the three-day adoption drive, now in its second year running nationally.
Last year, a record-breaking 2,792 animals found their furever homes across the country in the RSPCA’s most successful adoption promotion to date.
“This weekend is all about encouraging people looking for a pet to consider adopting, not shopping, for their newest family member,” said Brendon Neilly, RSPCA NSW executive manager, animal care services.
NSW has almost 800 animals available for adoption. Some have been waiting to be adopted for as long as 280 days. At the Katoomba shelter, there are dogs, cats, bunnies and guinea pigs.
Although adoption fees will be drastically reduced, normal adoption procedures will apply to ensure each animal is matched with the right family. This includes one-on-ones with prospective adoptive parents and future fur-siblings. The animals will have already been desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and undergone veterinary checks and behavioural assessments.
Research confirms that the long-term success of adoptions is not influenced by the cost of acquiring the animal and there is no negative effect on their welfare. RSPCA NSW has run this promotion since 2016, and results from surveys conducted by RSPCA NSW six months after this promotion support these findings.
Even though the $29 adoption fee does not come close to covering the cost of treating and caring for the animals, you can’t put a price on finding forever homes for animals in need.
“Not only can these animals find new homes and families far sooner, it means that we are able to put more time and effort into caring for animals that desperately need our help. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing animals that have been in our care for months on end finally finding a loving home. It’s a positive outcome for all involved,” said Mr Neilly.
The Katoomba shelter is a 121-125 Mort Street. It is open from Friday to Sunday, 10am-3.30pm.
