The WA Government has launched a major public awareness campaign encouraging people looking for a new pet to first consider adopting a dog or cat from an animal shelter or rescue organisation.
Adopt, Don’t Shop aims to link you with a pet that meets your needs and circumstances. We’re also providing key information about responsible pet ownership — which begins the moment you start planning to bring a new pet into your life.
PetsWA and Stop Puppy Farming legislation
Protection for pet owners
Animal welfare
Buying from a breeder
Thinking of getting a pet?
Show moreAdopting a dog or cat from a rescue organisation is a rewarding, ethical and cost-effective way to bring a new pet into your family. And you’ll be giving them a second chance at a good life.
Why adopt?
- every puppy, kitten, dog and cat deserves a loving home
- with many dogs and cats in WA rescue organisations, you can find your perfect match
- pet adoption supports animal shelters and rescue services which are currently busier than ever
- rescue pets are desexed, microchipped, vaccinated and vet checked
- rescue pets provide companionship, unconditional love and bring joy to their new family
- WA rescue organisations have a wide variety of puppies, dogs, kittens and cats waiting to meet you.
Preparing for a pet
Consider:
- the long-term commitment of taking care of a pet
- your lifestyle and the characteristics you are looking for in a pet and make sure you can meet the animal’s needs
- how to prepare your family and home for a new pet
- the financial investment needed to look after your fur-baby
- adopting from a reputable rescue organisation or
- finding a responsible and reputable breeder.
How to adopt
- search for a pet available at WA rescue organisations
- make an appointment, call the organisation or lodge an application to adopt or discuss your preferred pet’s needs
- meet and get to know your prospective pet match before making your choice
- prepare your home and your family
- purchase the essentials — bedding, food, bowls, toys, a collar, leash
- welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting time, but remember to be patient, everyone will take a while to settle into a new routine
- register your new pet with your local government.
Promoting responsible ownership
Dogs and cats are an important part of many Western Australian homes. Promoting responsible ownership and the future health and welfare of dogs and cats is a key priority for the State Government under the Stop Puppy Farming Act 2021 and the Cat Act 2011.
The WA Government is committed to implementing landmark reforms to stop puppy farming in WA to improve the health, wellbeing and protection of dogs across the State.
The new laws will prevent cruelty towards dogs and help families establish that their pets have come from legitimate, ethical and traceable sources. Under these new laws:
- there will be a centralised registration system, PetsWA, to improve traceability of dogs, puppies, breeders and owners and make registering your pet easier
- pet shops wanting to sell dogs and puppies would transition to adoption centres would transition to adoption centres
- dogs would be mandatorily sterilised unless exempt.
Rescue organisations
Show moreMany rescue organisations, and services can support Western Australians to adopt or foster a loving pet who is looking for a new home.
RSPCA WA
RSPCA WA tries to match the right animal with the right owner. We offer personalised advice at our shelter about which animal best suits a person’s lifestyle and personality.
Animal Protection Society of WA
Animal Protection Society of WA is a not-for-profit, pro-life volunteer run cat and dog refuge. We are committed to rescuing cats and dogs who find themselves homeless.
Go to the Animal Protection Society of WA website.
Cat Haven
Cat Haven, WA’s largest shelter for homeless, lost and abused cats. Our vision is that every WA cat should be a well-cared for cat. A reduced adoption fee of just $25 will be offered for all our cats during the Adopt, Don’t Shop campaign.
Dogs' Refuge Home
We’ve been rescuing and rehoming dogs for almost 90 years, and with over 200 beautiful four-legged friends in our care at any time, chances are your next addition to the family is already here waiting for you! Please consider visiting us before going to a pet shop or breeder.
Go to the Dogs' Refuge Home website.
K9 Rescue Group
At K9 Rescue Group we are passionate about creating an environment where a dog is treated as a rightful and respected member of the community. We have many volunteers who work tirelessly to successfully rehome around 200-300 dogs a year.
Go to the K9 Rescue Group website.
SAFE
Since its inception in Karratha in 2003, SAFE (Saving Animals From Euthanasia) has been a beacon of hope for animals in need across Western Australia
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