RSPCA WA hosted a free pet care event in Thornlie on Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief to struggling pet owners.
Held from 9 to 11am, the event provided free health checks, microchipping, flea and worm treatments, and pet food to dog and cat owners doing it tough during the ongoing cost-of-living and housing crises.
The event saw a strong turnout. Around 120 people attended, 63 dogs received health checks, 10 dogs were microchipped. Additionally, over 170 kilograms of pet food and more than 60 preventative treatments were handed out.
Speaking with Examiner Newspapers, spokesperson for RSPCA WA Lou Rowe said, “It’s okay to ask for help,” she said.
She added, “Events like this show that there are options available before things get worse for your pet. We’d always prefer to see animals stay with their loving families rather than end up in shelters.”
Rowe also highlighted the relief that access to free pet health care brings to struggling pet owners.
Health checks were performed by vet staff and students from South Metropolitan TAFE, with RSPCA WA staff and volunteers on hand to offer training tips and answer questions.
The event further shed light on the growing issue of pet owners struggling to afford basic pet care. RSPCA WA’s Pet Census revealed that 45 per cent of respondents spend between $1000 and $3000 on their pets each year, while 26 per cent spend between $3000 and $5000.
As costs continue to rise, 78 per cent of respondents reported noticing an increase in the cost of pet food, and 58 per cent reported an increase in veterinary care costs.
Rowe urged pet owners to reach out for help before their pet’s health suffers.
“RSPCA WA encourages pet owners to seek help before their pet becomes seriously ill,” she said.
RSPCA WA thanked the City of Gosnells, South Metropolitan TAFE, and volunteers for their support.
