.jpg "Rescue Greyhound Melba with her owner Mike. Credit: Eugene Hyland for Petstock Foundation.")
Petstock Foundation Finds 1,000+ Happy Homes & Raises $113k for Rescue Charities
The Petstock Foundation has proudly shared that as a result of its annual National Pet Adoption Month campaign this May, a staggering 1,038 vulnerable pets have been welcomed into loving new homes across Australia and New Zealand.
Alongside finding forever homes, the Foundation successfully raised more than $113,000 across both nations, thanks to donations from generous pet lovers. 100% of these funds will go directly to over 230 grassroots rescue organisations. The money will be put towards critical costs associated with pet wellbeing—including veterinary services, food, and shelter—which are vital to these charities' ability to provide quality care for animals still waiting for permanent homes.
Small Actions, Huge Impact
The Petstock Foundation is incredibly passionate about the life-changing impacts of pet adoption.
Adoption Month works to raise awareness of the massive challenges rescue charities are currently facing, encourage people to consider adopting or fostering, and raise much-needed funds through direct donations or the purchase of the popular plush 'Buddy' pet toy.
Petstock Foundation’s Community Engagement Lead, Naomi Mancktelow, says the collective generosity of the community has arrived at a vital time:
Our Adopt-a-Buddy campaign shows just how powerful small actions can be. Whether you adopted a rescue pet, donated, or purchased a Buddy toy, you have helped give animals a second chance!
"Our communities have been essential in supporting the local rescue groups who care for these pets in need every day. We’re incredibly grateful to our community of pet lovers—together, you’re helping ease pressure on rescue organisations and creating brighter futures for pets and the people who love them."
This year, Petstock stores right around the country hosted adoption days over various weekends throughout May, allowing rescue pets to meet potential adopters and foster carers in-store.
Where the Adoptions Happened
Despite the challenging economic environment many households are currently facing, the pet community stepped up. All proceeds from the initiative go directly toward giving local rescue groups the resources they need most—from everyday care to essential desexing programs that reduce unwanted litters.
State-by-State Adoption Breakdown (May):
| Location | Number of Successful Adoptions |
|---|---|
| Victoria | 248 |
| Queensland | 196 |
| South Australia | 178 |
| Western Australia | 153 |
| New South Wales | 138 |
| New Zealand | 105 |
| Australian Capital Territory | 19 |
| Tasmania | 6 |
Since its inception in 2007, the Petstock Foundation has worked tirelessly to strengthen the bond between pets and people, having found homes for more than 50,240 rescue pets to date.
CASE STUDY: How Olivia Found a Forever Friend in Foster Fail Darcy
To understand the real-world impact of the Petstock Foundation's initiatives, look no further than the beautiful bond between Queenslander Olivia Bryant and her gorgeous dog, Darcy.
Olivia Bryant with her beloved "foster fail" Darcy, a 16-month-old Bull Arab x Boxer. Photo supplied.
Darcy, a 16-month-old Bull Arab x Boxer, started life as a vulnerable rescue puppy born in the remote town of Weipa. To give him the fighting chance at the forever home every rescue dog deserves, he was flown to Cairns.
Olivia originally came to foster Darcy through the local rescue charity Stray to Stay. From the very moment they met, she felt an instant, undeniable connection.
What drew me to Darcy most was his nature,” Olivia explains. “He is affectionate, loving and has such a calm, gentle presence.”
"I felt it was rare to come across a dog with his temperament. He never needed to be the loudest or most confident dog in the room—he was just himself, patiently waiting for someone to truly see him."
Exactly Where He Was Meant to Be
It didn't take long for the temporary fostering arrangement to turn into something permanent. Olivia officially became a proud "foster fail," deciding to adopt Darcy for good.
"It quickly became clear that he wasn't just passing through my home, he was exactly where he was meant to be," says Olivia. "Knowing that he is safe, cherished, and loved unconditionally is everything I could have hoped for, and I feel incredibly lucky to be the person who gets to give him that."
Fostering and adopting Darcy opened Olivia’s eyes to just how many incredible animals are out there waiting to be chosen. There are thousands of beautiful, loving dogs sitting in rescue shelters who, through no fault of their own, are just waiting for a family to give them a go.
"Campaigns that raise awareness for adoption, like the Petstock Foundation’s Adoption Month, bring meaningful change to the lives of animals without a permanent home, and help take the pressure off rescue charities," Olivia notes.
For me, adopting felt like the most meaningful choice. It is not just about what a dog can bring to your life, but also about changing theirs.”
How to Help Year-Round
While Adoption Month takes place in May, adoptions can happen year-round! If you are thinking about adding a furry family member to your home, animal lovers are encouraged to visit their local Petstock store or head to www.petstock.com.au to find out more information about adopting from a local rescue charity in your area.
All photography credited to Eugene Hyland for the Petstock Foundation.
