RSPCA NSW's Shelters Have Reopened to the Public If You're Looking to Adopt or Foster an Animal

Like much of Sydney, during lockdown, RSPCA NSW's shelters closed to the public and, instead, the animal-rescue centres launched a completely online adoption process. Thankfully, that didn't stop us from helping find forever homes for its many animals, with a whopping 2680 adopted during the two months.

From June 15, centres across the state reopened to the public — and there are still plenty of furry and feathered creatures out there waiting to find a home. While more of us are still working from home and practising social distancing (and increasingly wanting a four-legged friend as a comforting companion), the RSPCA is encouraging Australians to foster or adopt. So, if you've been thinking about adding a pet to your fam (and have considered it thoroughly), now might just be the time.

"Thank you to everyone who has continued to support us, it has been heart-warming to see the community turn to animal companionship during these challenging times," RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said in a statement. "We hope this support will continue as we re-open our doors to the public to adopt animals in our care."

Across NSW, there are hundreds of animals that need a new home full of love and pats. There's more to pet adoption and foster care than overdosing on cuteness, of course, with making the commitment to care for an animal is serious business. For further information, read RSPCA's FAQs.

Before you head to a shelter, check its updated opening hours and COVID-19 processes, as centres still have capacity limits and social distancing and hygiene measures in place.

For details about adopting animals, head to the RSPCA NSW website.

CORRECTION: JUNE 23, 2020  — This article previously stated that the number of animals adopted during lockdown was almost equal to the total number adopted in the whole of 2019. This is incorrect. More than 13,000 animals were adopted during the last financial year.