• What are common health problems in rabbits?

    The following is a list of the most common ailments and diseases that can affect your rabbit. It’s very important to talk to your veterinarian about how to prevent disease and keep your rabbit healthy and happy. Respiratory infections Rabbits are susceptible to bacterial and viral respiratory infections. Although they…

  • What should I do when I bring home a new puppy?

    Before bringing home a new puppy, make sure that you can fully commit to the lifelong responsibilities of caring for a dog. Welcoming an animal into your household is an important decision. RSPCA care centres receive thousands of unwanted and abandoned animals each year, sometimes the result of ill-considered or…

  • How old should a puppy be before they are adopted/purchased?

    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 should I introduce my new dog to my existing dog?

    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…

  • I’m looking for a new companion animal, where should I go?

    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….

  • How should I exercise my puppy?

    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…

  • What is a puppy farm?

    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…

  • How do I avoid supporting puppy farms?

    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…

  • How do I find a responsible dog or cat breeder?

    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…

  • Can you give me some advice on caring for my dog?

    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…