The NSW government is urging families planning to welcome a new cat or dog into their household this festive season to adopt.
The Office of Local Government is backing an ‘Adopt, Don’t Shop’ campaign aimed at helping find ‘fur-ever homes’ for pets in council pounds and rehoming facilities.
‘Adopting from a pound or rehoming facility rather than buying from a pet shop or breeder is a great way to welcome a new pet into your family and give them a brighter future,’ a media release on Friday read.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said when it came to Christmas presents, it was hard to think of a better gift then giving a pet a second chance at life.
‘There are many cats and dogs in council pounds and rehoming facilities and I hope everyone looking to buy a pet will consider adoption instead,’ the minister was quoted saying.
‘It’s important to remember that owning a pet is a significant responsibility,’ he said, ‘and I urge anyone who does get a pet for Christmas to make sure they’re ready to take on that commitment.’
The OLG said more than 3,837 dogs and 4,473 cats found forever homes after being adopted through council pounds in the year to 30 June 2024.
Anyone wanting to adopt a pet was encouraged to contact their local council for information on council pounds, or visit the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League, Cat Protection Society or another approved rehoming organisation.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
