Media Releases

Shelley Hancock – Minister for Local Government

Monday, 16 December 2019

The NSW Government is today urging anyone considering giving a pet as a gift this Christmas to carefully consider the ongoing responsibility and commitment required to care for a dog or a cat.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said tempting as it may be to surprise family or friends with a furry gift, people must consider the ongoing cost, care and responsibility that comes with being a pet owner.

“If you are considering giving a pet to a family member or friend this Christmas, I urge you not to surprise them with a dog or cat but to have a conversation with them beforehand to ensure they can meet the long-term care requirements of the animal,” Mrs Hancock said.

Mrs Hancock also encouraged anyone planning to welcome a pet into their home to ‘adopt not shop’ for their new pet.

“I encourage anyone thinking about welcoming a pet into their lives to visit an RSPCA shelter, a NSW council pound, or one of the many approved rehoming organisations across the State to rescue an animal in desperate need of a home,” she said.

“As well as being wonderful new family members, rehoming abandoned cats and dogs has the added benefit of reducing the burden on animal pounds, shelters and rehoming organisations and, importantly, helps lower euthanasia rates.

“As an incentive for people to adopt rescue pets, the NSW Government continues to provide half price lifetime pet registration fees.”

Since 2015, more than 46,000 pet owners have saved over $1.2 million in reduced pet registration fees.

MEDIA: Nicholas Story | Minister Hancock | 0438 255 020