Get help with a pet

Not sure what you need? Find your situation below: each one points to the real Canberra Pet Rescue program that can help.

If it's urgent: For an urgent situation (such as very young kittens who aren't eating yet), message Canberra Pet Rescue on Facebook with your phone number and location, or go straight to your nearest vet if you don't hear back quickly.

Need to rehome your own pet, without giving them up to us?

PetConnect

A direct rehoming service: your pet stays with you while Canberra Pet Rescue screens applicants and helps connect you with a suitable new owner. New owners contribute a $50 tax-deductible donation, and there's no cost to you. It's described as the least stressful option for a pet that needs a new home, since it doesn't take up a foster place needed by sick, abandoned or newborn animals.

Start a PetConnect application →

Can no longer keep your pet, permanently?

Surrendering

Canberra Pet Rescue doesn't charge a surrender fee and relies solely on donations to operate. Because capacity is limited, stray-cat assistance is prioritised, and response times can stretch to a few weeks in busy periods (September to April). Contacting them first for behavioural advice sometimes avoids a surrender altogether.

Start a surrender request →

Need pet food or supplies?

PetAssist

Donated food and supplies (for dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and more) for pet owners doing it tough, with no requirement to hold a concession or pension card.

Please note: PetAssist is currently paused after severe vandalism to Canberra Pet Rescue's premises, until they move into a new space. Watch their Facebook page for updates.

See PetAssist →

Facing an unexpected vet bill?

Subsidised Vet Services

ACT Pet Crisis Support helps cover unexpected vet bills for owners with no other options, and is accessible through any vet in Canberra or Queanbeyan. VetPay offers a separate way to spread a vet bill over three months, interest-free, with no cost unless you use it.

See Subsidised Vet Services →