With Christmas fast approaching, families across New South Wales are being encouraged to consider adopting a pet from a council pound or animal shelter, giving rescue dogs and cats the chance at a loving “furever” home.
More than 78,000 dogs and 37,000 cats have been registered across NSW this year, underscoring the central role pets play in Australian households. But for thousands of animals still waiting for homes, adoption offers a vital second chance at life.
New figures show that in the year ending 30 June 2025, 5,043 cats and 4,301 dogs were adopted from council pounds—a more than 10 per cent increase on the previous year.
NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig welcomed the rise, but urged the community to keep up the momentum this festive season.
“It’s fantastic to see an increase in the number of pets adopted from council pounds over the last year,” Mr Hoenig said.
“While this makes a huge difference, there are still so many loving dogs and cats waiting for a family and a home to call their own this Christmas.
“Adopting a pet doesn’t just change their life, it can change yours. Pets bring love and companionship and are cherished members of the family in so many NSW households.
“I’d encourage anyone who is thinking about welcoming a pet to the family this Christmas to contact their local council or find their nearest rehoming centre.
“Bringing a pet home is a long-term commitment so it’s important anyone who is thinking of adopting understands this responsibility and is ready to provide the love and care their new pet needs.”
Animal rehoming organisations, many run by volunteers, play a critical role in the process, offering care and shelter to some of the most vulnerable animals in the state. To support their work, the State Government has committed $6 million in funding over four years to help continue rehoming efforts across NSW.
The funding comes alongside broader reforms, including the first comprehensive review of the Companion Animals Act in more than two decades. From 1 December, tougher laws for dog breeders have also come into effect, as part of the Government’s crackdown on puppy farming.
Animal Welfare League NSW Acting CEO Mark Seymour echoed the call to adopt rather than shop for pets this Christmas.
“The Animal Welfare League NSW supports the Minister’s call to adopt rather than shop this Christmas,” Mr Seymour said.
“Every year we see how life-changing adoption can be, both for the animal and the family who welcomes them home.
“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.
“Choosing adoption eases pressure on local shelters and pounds, keeps vulnerable animals safe, and gives families a loyal companion who will bring years of love and joy.
“We encourage anyone considering a pet this Christmas to visit their local shelter and give a rescue animal the home they deserve.”
Members of the public looking to adopt are encouraged to contact their local council for information about available pets in council pounds or visit an approved rehoming organisation.
Owners are also reminded to microchip and register their pets on the NSW Digital Pet Registry. Registration is free for desexed cats and dogs adopted from council pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.
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