Pets are part of the family in thousands of NSW households, with over 78,000 dogs and 37,000 cats registered across the state this year alone.
But for those animals that don’t have a home, adopting from a council pound or rehoming organisation rather than buying from a breeder or pet shop, gives them a second chance at life.
In the year ending 30 June 2025, 5,043 cats and 4,301 dogs were adopted from council pounds, up more than 10 per cent on the previous year.
Adopting takes pressure off animal rehoming organisations, many of which are run solely by volunteers who give their time to care for some of the most vulnerable animals in the state.
The NSW Government is providing a much needed boost to animal rehoming organisations committing $6M in funding over the next four years to help these organisations continue caring and rehoming animals across NSW.
This funding complements further work the NSW Government is doing in this space including the first comprehensive review of the Companion Animals Act in more than 20 years.
The Government has also banned puppy framing in NSW, with tougher laws for dog breeders coming into effect on 1 December this year.
To adopt a pet contact your local council for information on council pounds, or visit an approved rehoming organisation.
Pet owners are also being reminded to ensure their dog and cats are microchipped and registered on the NSW Digital Pet Registry. Registration is free-of-charge for desexed cats and dogs adopted from pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.
Animal Welfare League NSW Acting CEO Mark Seymour said the Animal Welfare League NSW supports the Minister’s call to adopt rather than shop this Christmas.
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In 2024/25, Animal Welfare League NSW helped rehome more than 3,500 cats and dogs across New South Wales. Every one of those animals deserved a second chance, and thousands more across the state are still waiting for theirs.
