Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Wednesday, 3 February, 2016. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

This National Pet Adoption Day, help turn heartbreak into hope for an orphaned animal.

The initiative, led by PETstock’s charity foundation PETstock Assist, in partnership with not-for-profit animal rescue organisation PetRescue, and the Greater Shepparton Animal Shelter, aims to raise awareness of pet adoption and encourage Australians to consider giving a rescue pet a forever home.

PetRescue Co-Founder, Vickie Davy, said educational events like Pet Adoption Day show people that choosing to adopt a pet can deliver huge rewards.

"In most cases, pets end up in rescue through no fault of their own. The most common reasons can be traced back to owners’ lifestyle changes, health issues and the financial costs of owning a pet, as opposed to behavioural issues."

"The sad reality is rescue pets face a grim future without adoption, so by welcoming a rescue pet into your home you may be saving a life. Giving an animal a new lease of life is incredibly rewarding and they will thank you every day with unlimited love and affection.

"Adopting also allows people to find a pet most suited to their age, lifestyle and living arrangements. We have so many wonderful stories of rescue pets becoming a companion for someone living alone, a best buddy for an existing pet and even inspiring a career change!"

Ms Davy herself quit her corporate job 10 years ago to launch PetRescue.com.au, which connects animal welfare organisations and their rescue pets with those looking to add a new member to their family. The site has grown to become the most visited charity website in Australia and has saved the lives of countless dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and even horses.

Since PetRescue was founded in 2004 the number of adopted pets has increased each year including 75,000 in 2015 alone.

A recent national pet parent survey conducted by PETstock showed that 77 per cent of animal owners would consider adopting their next pet.

PETstock Chief Executive Officer, Shane Young said "We are strong advocates of pet adoption and through PETstock Assist we’re committed to supporting PetRescue to help find homes for rescue pets Australia wide.

Most common reasons pets enter rescue:

Lifestyle changes –people losing their job or getting a demanding job, divorce or having a new baby.

Health –people encountering difficulties with their health.

Financial –cost of pet ownership including vet bills, food and grooming is often underestimated, particularly when it comes to pet health issues.

Moving house –the new home or rental property may not allow pets. Or a family member or new roommate may be allergic.

Time restrictions –caring for a pet requires a lot of time and dedication. Animals often end up in shelters due to owners having limited time outside of their busy work schedules.

Training –many people get a new pet without realising how much training is involved, including obedience and / or toilet training.