Cruelty-free shopper? Organic only? Ciao investigates the adoption and animal-rescue centres in the Inner West that help residents extend their ethical lifestyle choices to animal companions. A furry friend in need is a friend indeed.
Maggie’s Rescue
Focusing on both cats and dogs, Maggie’s Rescue aims to secure loving and safe homes for abandoned or surrendered animals. This organisation takes quite a practical approach in their adoption process, with a two-week trial period available to those families who would consider owning a rescue animal – this is to allow time for both parties to adjust and to see if their arrangement is suitable for all involved. Maggie’s Facebook page is updated regularly, keeping you in the know of their latest adoptees, as well as notifying you of who has been lucky enough to have found a family.
Annandale Animal Hospital
In conjunction with providing typical veterinarian services, the Annandale Animal Hospital also houses an on-site adoption centre strictly dedicated to cats. They take in felines of all ages, ensuring that they have received the required vaccinations, necessary health checks and are (most importantly) microchipped before they are put up for adoption. The hospital’s central location in Leichhardt makes for easy access, and walk-ins are more than welcome. Drop on by – you may just find a cuddly new friend!
Rocky’s K9 Rescue
This non-for-profit organisation believes in providing lifetime, ‘fur-ever’ homes to all of their rescue animals, drawing on the help of volunteer foster carers. These individuals play a crucial role at Rocky’s in that they provide temporary accommodation for the adoptees until a suitable owner is found. Animals in foster care transition back into domestic life much easier, especially if they’ve experienced trauma or have spent substantial time in a shelter. If you want to adopt a new pet their website contains details of available animals, as well as a comprehensive list of past success stories.
WIRES
The expansive parklands and green spaces of the Inner West are teeming with all types of animals. However, the majority of those aren’t domesticated. The Wildlife Information, Rescue & Education Service, or WIRES, is an organisation that tends to sick or critically injured wildlife and should be your first point of contact if you encounter an animal in need. They care for and rehabilitate thousands of native animals every year and rely on a team of trained volunteers to achieve this. If volunteering isn’t an option, donations of various kinds are welcomed to ensure that this vital community service continues.
Words: Emma McConnell
