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The cold winter days were made more enjoyable for some lucky animal shelter pups this year thanks to the generous donation of dog coats by the Petstock Foundation.
While winter is coming to an end, it has been a long, cold, and often uncomfortable season for many. This year, the colder months have been particularly tough for animals in shelters across Australia.
But in a heartwarming initiative that has boosted both canine and human morale, the Petstock Foundation partnered with its suppliers to donate over 4,500 coats to 11 animal shelters around the country.
The donation, valued at $200,000, made a significant difference in the lives of the animals as they await their forever homes
The shelters who benefitted include Bendigo Animal Relief Shelter, Ballarat Animal Shelter, Wodonga Dog Rescue, and Vic Lamb Rescue in Victoria; Red Collar Rescue, Queensland Staffy and Amstaff Rescue, Capricorn Animal Aid, and Silver Lining Pet Rescue in Queensland; and Dusty Paws Dog Rescue and Paws and Claws Adoptions in South Australia.
Petstock Foundation’s commitment to animal care
Jessica Curtis, Head of the Petstock Foundation, says the Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of animals was the motivating factor behind the donations.
“The Petstock Foundation exists to empower a better future for pets and people, by making a positive impact where it matters,” says Curtis.
“Pets can improve our lives in so many ways, and it’s the rewarding bond between pets and people that inspires the work of the Petstock Foundation to lead change.”
The normal challenges facing animal shelters increased significantly this year, with the rise in number of surrendered pets adding strain to their already limited resources.
“We’re seeing a very cold winter across Australia, and we want to help rescues provide the best care possible to pets who are awaiting a warm home of their own.
“Often rescue charities are run by volunteers and rely on community support, so supporting them is key to ensuring their future longevity.”
The coats have definitely provided much-needed warmth and comfort to animals and have ensured they are as comfortable as can be while waiting for adoption.
The positive impact on shelters
For the shelters benefitting from the generous donations, the coats are more than just practical—they bring joy and comfort to both the animals and their carers.
“The animals LOVE their new coats,” says Alex, the Fundraising and Event Coordinator at Paws and Claws Adoptions.
“Our new pups in care are very keen to explore and learn all about grass and the outside (as well as house training) and the cold weather can put quite a damper on it for them.
“Having the coats has meant that the outside weather isn’t as much of a factor and lets them concentrate on more important things, like chasing bugs and running amok!”
Alex says the coats have been particularly beneficial for the older and recovering shelter animals, giving them warmth and comfort, whether inside or outside.
And for the dogs housed in crates overnight, the coats offer an added layer of comfort, helping them feel more secure.
“The carers have had fun choosing which colours and styles best suit their wards and the animals are quite happy with their new stylish threads.
“For the coats that have been surplus, we have received donations for resident animals, my own included.
“The larger ones have been great for our older guys, and they feel part of the team too.”
Shelter pups keeping warm with their donated jackets (image supplied)
Winter challenges in animal shelters
Winter is traditionally a difficult season for animal shelters, as colder weather often leads to a decrease in adoptions.
Alex points out that the housing crisis and cost of living have exacerbated the problem, resulting in shelters being overwhelmed with surrendered animals even during what should be the “low” season.
“People don’t adopt as much in the winter months, so carers are with fosters for longer and it’s harder to adopt out the older fosters in general,” she says.
Despite these challenges, the coat donations have provided a much-needed morale boost.
Alex weadds that the sight of animals in their new, warm coats brought smiles to everyone at the shelter and offered some joy to their often-difficult work.
“The fact that we are thought of, even during the ‘low’ season is nice, and it gives us a boost to know that people still care,” Alex says.
The Petstock Foundation regularly supports partners through initiatives like National Pet Adoption Month, which raised over $99,000 in 2024 alone.
Visit the Petstock Foundation website to learn more about the organisation.