How the Cost of Living is Impacting Aussies & The Life-Changing Joy of Rescue Pets Featuring Melanie Bracewell
She’s used to bringing the laughs, but this May, Melanie Bracewell—comedian and co-host of The Cheap Seats—is getting serious about a cause close to her heart. Partnering with the Petstock Foundation, Melanie is shedding light on the life-changing impact of pet adoption and the unprecedented challenges currently facing rescue charities across Australia.
The Economic Pinch on Pet Shelters
Bracewell’s support arrives at a critical turning point. As the cost of living continues to climb, pet shelters are feeling a double-sided squeeze: the rising cost of essentials like food and veterinary care, and a heart-breaking surge in surrenders from owners who can no longer afford to keep their beloved companions.
“The Sad Reality: Research conducted by the Petstock Foundation in March 2026 reveals that 1 in 6 pet owners (16%) have seriously considered rehoming their pet due to financial pressure.”
This trend is devastating for the 69% of Australians who consider their pets to be true members of the family. The data further highlights the extreme lengths people are going to for their animals:
- 31% of owners have sacrificed their own groceries to cover pet costs.
- 10% have been forced to put off routine or preventative care due to expense.
A Dog with a Backstory: Melanie’s Rescue Journey
As a proud pet parent to two rescue dogs, Charles and Gigi, Melanie knows first-hand that the bond with a rescue animal is unique.
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| Melanie at home with her first rescue, Charles.
"I adopted my dog Charles, a Maltese Shi-tzu, four years ago, and my life has changed for the better," Melanie shares. "He’s like the old man from the movie Up—a grumpy guy with a heart of gold. He even smiles with his bottom teeth, just like I did before braces!" The family grew when Pawsome Friends reached out about Gigi, a dog rescued from a hoarder home with 35 other pups. "She’s the little kid who has given Charles a new lease on life. Seeing the joy they bring is priceless. I love a dog with a backstory—I get to brag that I gave them a better life!"  Dog behaviourist and health expert Lara Shannon notes that the current crisis has shifted the "profile" of shelter pets. "Many pets currently being abandoned haven't been given up due to behavioural issues, but simply because the cost of care became too high," Shannon explains. “This means there are many well-trained, loving pets in shelters right now who are simply in need of a new home.” How You Can Help: The $170,000 Goal Naomi Mancktelow, Community Engagement Lead, says: "Our focus this May gives Australians a chance to support local rescue groups with essential resources, from everyday care to desexing programs that bring us closer to a future with zero preventable animal euthanasia." ✔ Adopt: Visit your local Petstock store during their Adoption Weekends in May. ✔ The 'Buddy' Toy: Purchase a plush ‘Buddy’ toy in-store or online. ✔ Donate: Support the foundation directly. 100% of funds raised go to charitable partners. Managing the Costs: To support new owners, Petstock is adding $20 in Pet Cash to new adopters' rewards accounts and offering Everyday Rewards points to help with future essentials. Learn more about finding your new best friend at www.petstock.com.au/adopt. |
