RSPCA Australia considers the minimum acceptable age for a puppy to be removed from their mother for adoption or purchase to be eight weeks of age, and the puppy must be fully weaned. Puppies are dependent on their mother. It is essential for their physical, psychological and social development that they…
How well dogs get along with each other is influenced by a range of factors related to the owner, the dogs, the environment, and husbandry. In some situations, dogs may learn to get along. In other cases, they may not be compatible. Planning and preparation The success of an introduction…
The RSPCA encourages prospective owners to adopt an animal from the RSPCA or another reputable animal welfare, rehoming, or rescue organisation. What are the benefits of adopting an animal from the RSPCA? The RSPCA cares for thousands of animals every year including cats, dogs, horses, birds, rabbits, and guinea pigs….
Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their care. Apart from providing various health benefits, exercising also provides a good opportunity for your puppy to socialise with other friendly puppies, dogs and people too, which is vital for their behavioural development. More information on…
A puppy farm (also known as a puppy factory or puppy mill) is an intensive dog breeding facility, operating under inadequate conditions. Puppy farming is a major animal welfare issue in Australia because puppy farms fail to meet dogs’ physical and mental needs. Why are puppy farms a problem? The main…
A puppy farm (also known as a puppy factory or puppy mill) is an intensive dog breeding facility operating under inadequate conditions. Puppy farms fail to meet dogs’ physical and mental needs, and puppy farming is a major animal welfare issue in Australia. For more information see the Knowledgebase article ‘What…
If you are looking to welcome a companion animal into your family, RSPCA Australia encourages prospective owners to first consider adopting an animal from the RSPCA or other reputable animal welfare organisation. If you’re unable to find an animal from a rescue organisation, another option is to adopt an animal who…
Having a companion dog can be a wonderful and joyful part of your life but is also a big commitment and responsibility; they require care and understanding, shelter, a balanced diet, daily exercise, veterinary care, training, enrichment, and more. When you are bringing a new dog into your family there…
Obesity is a common health problems in Australian dogs. If not addressed early on obesity can lead to other serious health complications such as heart failure and diabetes. Obesity can also exacerbate other conditions such as osteoarthritis. You should consult with your veterinarian who can weigh your pet and determine your…
Yes, it is okay to keep your cat at home all of the time, as long as you make sure that you provide them with an environment that is optimised to meet their physical and mental needs, allows and encourages the expression of normal feline behaviours, minimises stress, and promotes…