For too many animals across our shelters and foster network, every day is the same: another morning waking up without a family, another night without a home to call their own.
Right now, over 300 cats and dogs are waiting. Hoping. Wondering if today will be the day someone chooses them.
But the heartbreaking truth?
Most will still be waiting tomorrow.
And the next day.
And the next.
Companion animals in our care are now staying an average of 46 days before finding their forever homes – a 69% increase in just two years. That’s not just a number. That’s a growing stretch of time filled with uncertainty, loneliness, and longing.
And every extra day comes at a cost.
The Growing Cost of Care
With the rising cost of living affecting every corner of our community, more and more families are making the agonising decision to surrender their beloved pets. In the past year alone, we’ve seen a 52% spike in animals waiting to enter our shelters – simply because their families can no longer afford to care for them.
When these animals arrive at our doors, many are in crisis. They need urgent medical treatment. Behavioural support. Time to heal from trauma or neglect. But more than anything, they need love – and the hope that better days lie ahead.
And that care is becoming more expensive than ever.
Today, it costs $1,348 on average to care for a single animal during their stay – a staggering increase that reflects the pressure being felt right across our shelters and foster network.
“We’re doing everything we can to meet each animal’s needs,” says Kristy Blake, our Animal Operations General Manager.
“But the longer they stay, the more support they need. These animals are not just numbers. They’re lives waiting to begin again.”
Every Day Matters
At RSPCA NSW, we’ll never give up on an animal in need. But the truth is, we can’t do this alone.
With the countdown to June 30 underway, we urgently need your help to keep going. Your donation can help provide expert veterinary care, behavioural support, enrichment, and daily cuddles to animals who are still waiting for their second chance.
Because every day an animal spends in our care is another day they’re not with a loving family.
And every day you help us keep the lights on, you give them the love and safety they need to hold on just a little longer.
Please donate today to help provide loving care to animals facing the longest wait of their lives.
Your support means everything – now more than ever.
Thank you for standing with us – and for never forgetting the ones who are still waiting.
