February 21, 2018
The Kingaroy RSPCA is aiming to “clear the shelter” this weekend with $29 adoption fees for all animals.
RSPCA spokesman Michael Beatty said a “Clear The Shelter” campaign in NSW last year found new homes for a record 753 animals.
The campaign had proven so successful it had been extended this year to shelters in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Darwin.
“It’s all about finding forever homes for all our animals and giving that extra incentive for people looking for a new pet a good reason to adopt, instead of shopping through online platforms or backyard breeders,” Mr Beatty said.
There are more than 600 animals available for adoption across Queensland, some having spent more than six months in care.
“Normal adoption procedures apply, including de-sexing and microchipping, vaccinations, veterinary checks and behavioural procedures, as well as a one-on-one with prospective new adoptive parents, to ensure all our animals go to great homes,” Mr Beatty said.
“We have monitored adoption promotions carefully and the evidence shows that there is no higher return rate whatsoever (with reduced costs of adoption), and no negative impacts for the animal’s welfare.
“The majority of people are already looking at adopting a pet, and this special adoption drive helps them make that decision to adopt, not shop.
“Our normal adoption prices rarely cover what it costs to prepare an animal for adoption, so $29 fees definitely don’t come close.
“However it’s all about getting animals out of shelters and into forever homes, and in that way it’s a huge success and a really worthwhile investment.”
