2577 animals wait for homes as Sydney shuts down

While most of us stay at home and wait out the pandemic, 2577 animals are waiting for forever homes at the RSPCA. You’re perfect home office colleague could be just one click away.

• Ex-Special Forces operative creates NSW’s doggie Disneyland
• The worst things dog owners do at dog parks

While thousands of businesses have shut and Sydneysiders have hunkered down, 2577 animals are still waiting for homes at RSPCA facilities in NSW.

The organisation is urging people to consider adopting a friend — which can now be done by appointment — to ensure animals looking for forever homes aren’t forgotten.

Animal cruelty and abandonment hasn’t stopped during the pandemic, and while RSPCA shelters are operating on reduced staff numbers, they are still caring for all incoming animals.

RSPCA continues to care for all incoming animals, despite operating on reduced staff numbers.

“Now, as this pandemic escalates, we are asking for your help to find forever homes for the animals in our care. We ask anyone considering an animal companion to think about RSPCA NSW,” said RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman.

“We will need your help as throughout this, RSPCA NSW will remain committed to the care, treatment and welfare of all in-care and incoming animals.”

Pets are a priceless companion during the current stay-at-home social distancing rules, and make excellent colleagues, said Mr Coleman.

The organisation has adapted its adoption process to adhere to social distancing rules and other ministerial directions during the COVID-19 outbreak. Picture: Richard Dobson

People interested in adopting an animal from the shelter can fill out an appointment request form, then staff will be in touch to arrange a meet and greet appointment.

Changes to the usual adoption process are temporary, as RSPCA is operating with reduced staff numbers to protect health and safety and comply with ministerial directions of social distancing.

If you’re not ready to adopt, the RSPCA also urgently needs foster carers and people can register for the role online.

All animals available for adoption can be found online here.

Originally published as 2577 animals wait for homes as Sydney shuts down