Why Australian families should consider pet adoption

Bringing a new pet into your home can be an exciting and life-changing decision. But with so many options, you might be wondering: should you adopt or shop for your next furry companion?

While buying from breeders or pet stores may seem convenient, pet adoption might offer benefits that go beyond simply finding a pet — it could be a way to make a meaningful difference for an animal in need.

Since the pandemic, pet adoption rates have dropped, and many animal shelters are now experiencing overcrowding. If you’re considering adding a four-legged friend to your family, adopting might be the best thing you could do — for yourself and the animals in need.

The state of pet adoptions in Australia

During the pandemic, pet adoptions surged as many families turned to animals for comfort in a very uncertain time. However, as lockdowns lifted and staff returned to workplaces, new challenges began to affect pet adoption rates. According to a recent PetRescue report, growing cost of living pressures, increased housing insecurity due to rising rental prices and even a rise in natural disasters have reduced the number of Australians able to consider pet adoption.

Plus, cost of living pressures have forced more Australians to surrender their pets, leading to overcrowded shelters, with the RSPCA receiving 87,465 animals across its shelters in 2022-2023 alone. More recently, the ABC has reported animal rescue organisations are navigating a spike in the number of animals coming into care — jumping by 30% to 40% year-on-year in 2024 in some areas.

These combined factors mean more pets are in need of homes, making adoption more important than ever. Remember: when you adopt a pet, you’re not just giving these animals a second chance at life, you’re also gaining a new best friend in the process.

What are the benefits of adopting a pet?

Adopting a pet can come with countless rewards for both you and the animal itself. Here are a few reasons why adopting might be a great option for your family.

Giving a pet a second chance

When you adopt, you could be giving an animal the chance to experience love and security they might have never known before. Whether they’ve been abandoned, lost, or surrendered, shelter animals are looking for a fresh start and in return, they can offer loyalty and affection, often for the rest of their life.

Knowing what you’re getting

When you adopt a pet, especially an older one, you'll have a good sense of their personality and behaviour as many shelters have the animal’s temperament tested and their behaviour assessed before offering them for adoption. This may mean you’re less likely to face surprises and can confidently choose the right pet for your family.

Saving on vet bills

When you adopt through the RSPCA adoption program or other similar options, most of the animals up for adoption are usually already vaccinated, desexed, and microchipped which could save you on upfront vet bills. It's a significant saving, especially when you consider the hefty price tag and medical expenses that would come with buying from a breeder.

Combating unethical breeding practices

By choosing animal adoption, you might be reducing the demand for dogs from unethical breeders and puppy farms. Many of these operations focus on profit at the expense of the animal's welfare. Adopting helps to cut off the supply chain and supports more ethical animal breeding practices.

Rescue pets form strong bonds

A rescue dog, cat, or other animal is often especially grateful for its second chance at a loving home. Many adopters report that these pets form stronger-than-expected bonds, showing loyalty and affection to their new families in ways that reflect their appreciation.

What should you consider before adopting a pet?

While adoption can be incredibly rewarding, it’s important to make sure you’re ready for the commitment. Here are a few things to think about before adopting a pet.

Your lifestyle

Consider how much time you might be able to dedicate to your pet. Working breed dogs, for instance, may need regular exercise and companionship, while an older cat might be more independent and suited to a busier lifestyle.

Financial responsibility

Adopting is just the first step — there are ongoing costs like food, vet bills, grooming, and supplies to consider.

According to this Choosi Pet Lovers Report, nearly 1 in 4 pet owners spend over $300 a month on their pets, with significant amounts going toward food, vet bills, and other essentials. For many, the greatest challenge of pet ownership is managing these ongoing costs, with 44% of pet owners citing food and medical expenses as the toughest aspect of having a pet.

In addition, vet bills can quickly add up, with check-ups and vaccinations ranging from $200 to $999 for most pet owners. And though the costs of common treatments can vary depending on the complexity, more serious emergencies or surgeries push these numbers even higher with more than 2 in 3 pet owners reporting that they would be willing to spend $1,000 or even more on their pet’s medical emergencies.

This is where pet insurance can help by covering a portion of unexpected eligible medical expenses and help ensuring your pet gets the care they need, potentially with less financial stress. According to the Choosi Pet Lovers Report, 36% of pet owners purchase pet insurance because it helps them budget for unexpected costs, and 32% believe it saves them money on treatments.

So, before you take on a pet, make sure you’re financially ready for the true long-term costs associated with dog or cat ownership which may or may not be with pet insurance.

Space and environment

Consider your living situation. How much space do you have for a large dog, or would a smaller pet be a better fit? It's essential to make sure your home environment matches the needs of the animal you’re considering. Some pets may need room to roam, while others will happily curl up in a small corner of your living room and hang out there almost all day.

Introducing other pets

If you have existing pets, consider how they’ll react to a new addition. Shelters typically perform a behaviour assessment and ensure the animal’s temperament is a good fit for homes with other animals. But it’s important to introduce them slowly and carefully to avoid stress for both your current and new pets.

Choosi Tip: To ensure a smooth transition for each pet, look for adoption centres that offer a “trial period” of a few weeks. This way, you won’t have to commit to something that doesn’t work out for either pet. However, if this isn’t available, then arranging a pet “meet and greet” before adopting is highly recommended to test the compatibility between your current pet and your potential new pet!

How to adopt a pet in Australia: A step-by-step guide

Ready to commit to a new furry addition for the family? It’s simple — just follow our step-by-step guide to adopting your new pet below:

Step 1: Research local shelters and RSPCA locations

Start by searching for reputable RSPCA shelter locations and other local rescue groups. Most organisations have websites where you can browse the animals available for adoption. Be sure to choose a group that prioritises the health and well-being of their animals.

Step 2: Visit the shelter or adoption events

Once you’ve found a few potential pets, visit the shelter or attend local adoption events. This allows you to meet the animals, see their personalities in action, and talk with staff about which pet is the best fit for your family.

Step 3: Ask questions and get to know the pet

It’s crucial to ask about the animal’s temperament and background. Is the animal’s behaviour assessed? Have they been microchipped, desexed, and vaccinated? Understanding the pet’s history will help you make a more informed decision and ensure you find the right pet for your family.

Step 4: Complete the adoption process

After deciding on your new companion, you’ll need to fill out an adoption application. Some shelters may conduct home checks or interviews to ensure the animal is going to a safe, stable home. Once the paperwork is done, you’re ready to bring your new family member home!

Step 5: Prepare your home

Make sure you have everything ready — food, water bowls, bedding, toys — so your new pet feels comfortable. If you’re adopting a dog, ensure your yard is secure and there’s plenty of room for them to play.

Step 6: Welcome your new pet home

Bringing your new pet home is an exciting time. Be patient as they adjust to their new surroundings. It might take a little while, but with love and attention, they’ll settle in and become a treasured part of the family.

The first few weeks might be an adjustment period for both you and your pet, but with consistency, patience, and a little extra care, you’ll soon develop a strong bond that lasts a lifetime.

Keep Reading: Everything you need to know about finding the right puppy when adopting from an animal shelter.

Adopting a pet is a beautiful, life-changing experience, but it also comes with responsibilities, including ensuring your new pet’s health. Vet bills and ongoing expenses can add up, which is where pet insurance can come in. By comparing pet insurance options with Choosi, you may find a plan that fits your needs and protects your furry friend. Compare your options and get a quote online now, so you may, potentially give your pet the best possible care.