Thursday October 2nd marks the RSPCA’s annual Give to Get them Home appeal - a one-day fundraising initiative where every dollar donated is doubled, thanks to major partners and generous individual supporters.

With more than 5,000 animals expected to be in care by December, the charity aims to raise $700,000 in just 24 hours – enough to help over one thousand pets find loving homes before Christmas.

“Animals bring so much joy into our lives. If you have a pet at home, or simply love animals, now is the time to help the animals our team tends to every day, and help them find a new home,” said Dr Anne Chester, RSPCA Queensland’s Chief Veterinary Officer.

Rising costs and pressures to rehome

On average, it can cost the RSPCA around $600 for each dog that enters their care to desex, vaccinate, microchip, and vet check them before adoption. Additionally, it costs the charity approximately $30 per day to care for each animal until they are rehomed.

“Simple things like medication, rescue vehicle and electricity costs rising every year means we need to raise more funds to continue to care for animals that need our help,” Dr Chester says.

In the last Financial Year, RSPCA Queensland have highlighted a continuing demand for animal surrenders with the charity receiving 3,586 dogs, cats, kittens and puppies from owners to rehome.

Every donation doubled

To ensure thousands of animals can continue to receive critical treatment and care at the RSPCA as they approach the busiest time of the year, the charity is urging community members to get involved in this major fundraising initiative across Australia.

Here’s how your donation can help:

  • $50 can help cover vaccination costs for a dog or cat to protect them from disease.
  • $200 can help care for an animal for a week while they wait for their new family.
  • $300 desexes a dog to prepare them for adoption.
  • $600 provides emergency vet care and medication to an animal in need.
  • $1,000 rescues and rehabilitates a neglected or abused animal.

Animal lovers contributing to RSPCA on October 2 can instantly double their donation and have twice the impact thanks to the generous pledges from major sponsors Royal Canin, BRAVECTO, Peter Alexander and other generous supporters.

Renowned Australian designer and long-time supporter of the RSPCA, Peter Alexander said, “My mother always said when it comes to charity, put your money where your mouth is!” 

“And so, I have, personally matched every dollar you donate to the Give to Get Them Home campaign. My love for all animals (except spiders, sorry!) has led me to be an ambassador for the RSPCA over the last 15 years,” said Peter.

“It's a role I take very seriously and I hope during these difficult times, everyone can look at finding a dollar or two to help our four-legged friends find a loving home,” he said.

Last year, 2,693 generous Queenslanders donated to the appeal, raising $707,307 for animals in need.

To get involved on October 2, donate online.