More than 81,000 animals entered RSPCA shelters nationally in 2023-24, while CANA reported an 11.6 per cent increase in pet surrenders in the 2024 financial year.
While most of these pets are finding new homes, experts warn that adopters often face challenges when it comes to their new pet’s health.
Unknown medical histories, pre-existing conditions and adjustment issues can lead to unexpected healthcare costs for new owners.
Leading pet insurance provider Petsy says the health of rescue pets is often less clear-cut than adopters expect.
Founder Monica Limanto said: “Shelters do an amazing job rescuing, assessing and caring for household animals.”
“Most will provide health checks, vaccinations, parasite treatments and even behavioural assessments. But it’s important for adopters to understand that some chronic conditions, particularly in older pets, may not be immediately obvious.”
At the Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) the veterinary team provides comprehensive examination and desexing, vaccination, microchipping and flea/worm/heartworm preventative care to every animal.
The team also performs dental extractions and cleaning, removing lumps and bumps, treating skin and ear infections and x-ray. The team has even removed tumors, a Blacktown Council spokesperson said.
“We always talk to prospective owners about health issues they may need to keep an eye on as pets age. We offer post-adoption behavioural support from our behaviour and rehoming team. We give every animal the best chance to be adopted and live a long and healthy life.”
