Adoption rates soar for pets

Despite 2020 being a challenging year for many, RSPCA WA saw some really positive outcomes for animal welfare Statewide.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to keep our doors open, and have so far taken in 1162 animals in need throughout WA.

With added precautions, including adoptions by appointment only, animals continued to find their forever families.

In fact, our figures show animals were actually finding homes quicker once they were ready for adoption, compared with 2019.

It seems people who adopted during the pandemic were already considering a pet, and there have been plenty of happy outcomes.

People have been worried we would see a lot of those animals back once people returned to work, but fortunately we haven’t seen any increased return rate.

RSPCA WA’s team of inspectors continued their frontline work investigating animal cruelty during the year, as reports didn’t stop during lockdown.

An important aspect of this work was helping pet owners in need who requested emergency advice and pet supplies during the pandemic. We expect this support will continue to play a critical role in keeping pets and their owners together this year.

Last year also saw some exciting upgrades to the Animal Care Centre in Malaga — RSPCA WA’s hub for animal rehabilitation and rehoming. We refurbished an old building on-site into our new vet clinic, with more room and additional equipment, which will save valuable time and resources going forward.

Government support also allowed for the refurbishment of two kennel blocks.

We expect they’ll be up and running by mid-2021.

MESSAGE FROM RSPCA WA MID WEST INSPECTOR MAUREEN

One story which stands out from the Mid West in 2020 was the rescue of this gorgeous puppy by WA Police and RSPCA WA, after she was found with her ears crudely cut off.

The pup, pictured, was taken to the vet, and while no witnesses to this cruel act came forward, she was able to make a full recovery and find a loving new home thanks to SAFE Carnarvon.