Social media and campaign resources

Adopt, Don't Shop campaign

Campaign resources

Campaign toolkit 2024

Find your perfect pet match at a shelter

In the lead up to Christmas, the WA Government has launched a major public awareness campaign encouraging people looking for a new pet to first consider adopting a dog or cat from an animal shelter or rescue organisation.

Adopt, Don’t Shop aims to link people with a pet that meets the needs of their home and circumstances, and remind people that responsible pet ownership begins when you start planning to bring a new pet into your life.

It will be launched by the Hon Hannah Beazley MLA, Minister for Local Government, on Saturday 16 November, with advertising materials to be in market from 16 November to 28 December.

Key messages

Responsible pet ownership starts when you start planning for a pet.
Over the festive season and summer holidays, many people consider bringing a pet into their home, using the time to settle a new pet into their home.
Adopting a pet is better for the community because it relieves pressure on shelters.
The Stop Puppy Farming Act that passed in 2021 will result in new rules around pet ownership, that will come into effect in 2025.
Now is the chance to adopt, rather than shop, for a pet.
Everyone can help promote responsible pet ownership in the peak pre-Christmas buying period.

Rescue pets make great companions, and you’ll feel good knowing you are giving a cat or dog a second chance. Find your perfect match at a shelter.

Adopt, Don’t Shop – find out more at pets.wa.gov.au

Benefits of adopting

adopting a pet relieves pressure on animal shelters and rescue services
rescue animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated and checked by a vet
their characteristics and behaviour are already known to shelter staff
shelters and rescue services are very experienced in helping people find the right pet for their lifestyle
you’re doing your bit to reduce the market for unregulated, backyard breeders

How to get involved

We’ll be posting tail-wagging and purr-fect adoption stories throughout the campaign to inspire others and share the companionship, love and life-changing benefits that rescue pets have brought to their owners’ lives!

Share your story — photos and videos encouraged!

Download our social media tiles.