Australian sporting superstars and animal welfare advocates, Sharni Layton, Peter Siddle and Giaan Rooney have banded together to team up with PETstock Assist to support the month-long initiative and educate Australians on the benefits of pet adoption.
Sharni and Peter are no strangers to rescuing animals, each being proud adoptive pet parents to three cats and five dogs collectively – all who have changed their lives for the better.
“Having the opportunity to give our five rescue dogs, quirks and all, a second chance at a loving home has been such a rewarding experience,” said cricketeer Peter Siddle.
“We were fortunate enough to meet our perfect match on five separate occasions. I encourage all would-be pet owners looking for a pet to consider adoption and keep an open mind,” he said.
For Netball player Sharni Layton, it’s knowing she always has the unwavering support from her rescue cats.
“The companionship and support that they’ve provided in return, especially throughout 2020 and now during the AFLW season, has made such a positive difference to my life off the field,” she said.
Since teaming up with PETstock Assist in 2020, swimmer Giaan Rooney has welcomed a four-legged rescue into her family.
“At the beginning of 2020 we began the search for a new furry family member, and it wasn’t long until I met our beautiful Daschund x Kelpie cross puppy, Roy,” says Giaan.
“Adopting Roy has been so rewarding. He’s formed a great bond with my children, who already understand the important responsibilities of caring for an animal,” she said.
PETstock Assist continues to encourage all Australian’s to Adopt Different this March – to adopt a new way of thinking when it comes to rescue pets. To reconsider any biases, dismiss unfair stereotypes and make considered, sustainable choices on what pet is truly the best fit for their lifestyle.
Throughout March, PETstock Assist will celebrate its inaugural National Pet Adoption Month initiative to find even more pets homes, educate the masses and celebrate the entire rescue community.
PETstock Assist Charity and Events Lead, Jessica Curtis, wants everyone, not just adoptive parents, to think differently about what they can do to help break the cycle of pet homelessness.
“Those who choose to adopt not shop play a critical role in reducing the number of animals in need,” she says. “Not only by providing a loving home and second chance, but also leading by example.”
“Our rescue parents take the time to learn a pet’s unique personality to find their perfect match, they make a long-term commitment, and ultimately, build a relationship that improves a pet’s life and their own,” she said.
With the unprecedented adoptions of 2020, the month-long initiative will also be focusing on education and training tips for animals and owners to build the best possible relationship for the future as Australia transitions to a COVID normal with more time spent apart.