Meet your perfect pet at adoption day

Animal-lovers’ next pet could be just around the corner, with PETstock Bunbury holding its fifth annual National Pet Adoption Day.

The annual event will return to the Homemaker Centre store on Saturday, February 9 and in a first, leading up to the day, all breed labels will be removed from pets listed online in a bid to find a home for as many as possible.

PETstock Assist charity and events coordinator Jess Guilfoyle said she hoped the move would help people forget any preconceptions they had about rescue pets or breed characteristics.

“Every pet is unique and individual and I encourage people considering a new pet to keep an open mind — you may just be surprised by who you fall for,” Ms Guilfoyle said.

Every year around 200,000 pets remain unclaimed in pounds across the country and PetRescue co-founder Vickie Davy said she was determined to change that statistic.

“I hope by encouraging people to look for an individual pet rather than a particular breed we can educate people on the incredible benefits of adopting a pet in need,” she said.

“Just like humans, personality is individual and it’s what’s on the inside that counts.

“Breeds come in and out of fashion, and unfortunately the stereotypes around them can lead to people choosing the wrong pet for their families.

“Not all cute fluffy dogs are great with kids, and overlooking a big boofy dog who loves children and naps may mean you miss out on the perfect family dog.

“From couch potatoes to fitness fanatics and beer buddies, there’s a pet to suit every lifestyle, and one of the biggest benefits to adopting is knowing that personality in advance.

“National Pet Adoption Day is a fantastic opportunity for Bunbury locals to find their perfect match.”

The pet adoption day will run from 10am to 2pm.