December 25th, 2025Give an animal a forever home or become a sponsor

While most Victorians are spending time with family or friends, RSPCA Victoria is asking people to spare a thought for the state’s shelter animals this holiday season, with many yet to find their forever homes.

RSPCA Victoria Senior Animal Care Manager Nadia Peiris said the animals are well cared for in the shelter, but it is no match for a loving home.

“For many people, this time of year is about spending time with your family, friends, and being together, but unfortunately animals in shelters right across the state won’t get to experience that this year,” Ms Peiris said.

“Some of these animals are recovering under veterinary care and need continuous care over the festive season.

“Our teams, just like other shelters, do everything they can to make this a special time of year for the animals in our care.

“We love spending time with them, and we make sure they get to open with a gift on Christmas Day but nothing beats waking up in a loving home.”

While RSPCA Victoria hasn’t been immune to cost-of-living challenges as the cost of caring for animals increasing, it’s easy for people to help.

“2025 has been a tough year for many pets in Victoria, and on average we’re spending over $68 per day per cat or dog in our care,” Ms Peiris said.

“If you’re not able to adopt or foster an animal, simply sponsoring just one of the many dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, horses and other animals in our shelters, helps us continue to provide for them and make their wait for a forever home a little bit nicer.

“By sponsoring one of the animals in our shelters you’ll become their Guardian Angel these holidays, which will make a big impact on the lives and well-being of the animals in our care.”

Those scrambling for a last-minute gift idea can sponsor animal as a gift, simply visit rspcavic.org today.