People hoping to welcome a four-legged friend to the family this Christmas are being encouraged to adopt from council pounds and shelters to give dogs and cats in need a loving furr-ever home. 

Pets are part of the family in thousands of NSW households, with over 78,000 dogs and 37,000 cats registered across the state this year alone. 

But for those animals that don’t have a home, adopting from a council pound or rehoming organisation rather than buying from a breeder or pet shop gives them a second chance at life.   

In the year ending 30 June 2025, 5,043 cats and 4,301 dogs were adopted from council pounds, up more than 10 per cent on the previous year. 

Adopting takes pressure off animal rehoming organisations, many of which are run solely by volunteers who give their time to care for some of the most vulnerable animals in the state.  

The NSW Government is providing a much-needed boost to animal rehoming organisations, committing $6 million in funding over the next four years to help these organisations continue caring and rehoming animals across NSW.  

This funding complements further work the NSW Government is doing in this space, including the first comprehensive review of the Companion Animals Act in more than 20 years. The Minns Labor Government has also banned puppy framing in NSW, with tougher laws for dog breeders coming into effect on 1 December this year. 

To adopt a pet, contact your local council for information on council pounds, or visit an approved rehoming organisation. 

Pet owners are also being reminded to ensure their dogs and cats are microchipped and registered on the NSW Digital Pet Registry. Registration is free-of-charge for desexed cats and dogs adopted from pounds, animal shelters and approved rehoming organisations.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said, “It’s fantastic to see an increase in the number of pets adopted from council pounds over the last year.

“While this makes a huge difference, there are still so many loving dogs and cats waiting for a family and a home to call their own this Christmas.

“Adopting a pet doesn’t just change their life, it can change yours. Pets bring love and companionship and are cherished members of the family in so many NSW households.

“I’d encourage anyone who is thinking about welcoming a pet to the family this Christmas to contact their local council or find their nearest rehoming centre.

“Bringing a pet home is a long-term commitment, so it’s important anyone who is thinking of adopting understands this responsibility and is ready to provide the love and care their new pet needs.”  

Animal Welfare League NSW Acting CEO Mark Seymour said, “The Animal Welfare League NSW supports the Minister’s call to adopt rather than shop this Christmas.

“Every year we see how life-changing adoption can be, both for the animal and the family who welcomes them home.

“In 2024/25, Animal Welfare League NSW helped rehome more than 3,500 cats and dogs across New South Wales. Every one of those animals deserved a second chance, and thousands more across the state are still waiting for theirs.

“Choosing adoption eases pressure on local shelters and pounds, keeps vulnerable animals safe, and gives families a loyal companion who will bring years of love and joy. 

“We encourage anyone considering a pet this Christmas to visit their local shelter and give a rescue animal the home they deserve.”