Petbarn has donated $100,000 to the RSPCA to help support older pets at RSPCA shelters across the country.
The donation from the company’s corporate charitable arm, Petbarn Foundation, will help the RSPCA offer subsidised adoptions for senior pets and to cover veterinary costs of older animals.
Richard Mussell, RSPCA Australia CEO, said the RSPCA cares for nearly 2,000 senior animals every year and that it costs a lot of money to get an animal ready for adoption.
“This can include providing vet checks, behaviour checks and rehabilitation when required, blood tests, parasite and other vital treatments, surgeries, vaccinations, foster care and transport. Sadly, older animals can require quite a bit of veterinary attention due to some common health issues, such as dental disease, arthritis, and heart disease.”
Janelle Bloxsom, Manager of the Petbarn Foundation, said that one of the main reasons senior pets are surrendered is because their elderly owners have either passed or moved to a nursing home where they can no longer be together.
“We know how deeply the bond can be between pets and their parents, to think about an older animal being moved from a loving home at this late stage in life is incredibly sad. We hope the $100,000 donation from the Petbarn Foundation will support the RSPCA in the wonderful work they do caring for senior pets during this transition.”
Mussell said he encourages potential owners to keep senior pets in mind when considering adopting a pet.
“Older pets are usually calmer and already well-adjusted to family life. And while adult and older pets still love to play and need plenty of exercise, they often take life at a slower pace than puppies and kittens — which might be a better fit for you and your family!”