Bunnings sizzles for rescue pets as demand from shelters reach record highs

Stores for Paws launches with nationwide sausage sizzle supporting local pet shelters and first ever Bunnings-branded dog hoodies debut to raise funds for PetRescue

Pups and pets are already a familiar sight in Bunnings aisles, and this April there’s even more reason to bring them along. Bunnings is calling on Australians to support rescue pets in need, with Stores for Paws launching this week from 17–19 April across stores nationwide.

The campaign comes at a critical time for the animal rescue sector, with pets spending longer waiting for homes.

PetRescue data shows more pets needing to find homes year-on-year, with over 8,300 pets listed for adoption on PetRescue today.

Throughout the Stores for Paws weekend, Bunnings stores will host local rescue organisations and shelters, with sausage sizzles, pet adoption days and in-store activities raising awareness and funds for their adoption programs and services in local communities. A free, pet-themed kids D.I.Y. workshop will also run in-store, alongside giveaways and treats for four-legged visitors.

For the first time, Bunnings will launch limited-edition dog hoodies, with $2 from every sale donated to PetRescue to support its national adoption platform, as well as its adoption programs and initiatives. Funds raised through Stores for Paws for local rescue organisations will help them cover essential costs including medical treatment, food and accommodation and ensuring rescue pets receive the care they need while they wait for a loving home.

Bunnings Head of Community, Partnerships and Events, Michelle Walter said the initiative brings together customers’ love of their pets with a desire to give back locally.

“At Bunnings, we love pets. Our customers love bringing their dogs into our stores, and Stores for Paws is about turning that love into real support for rescue pets - whether that’s meeting adoptable pets, supporting a local fundraiser or picking up a hoodie,” Michelle said.

“This initiative celebrates the incredible work local rescue groups do, while helping more pets find safe, loving homes.”

PetRescue CEO, Patima Tantiprasut, said this initiative plays an important role in supporting vulnerable pets and the people who care for them.

“The rescue community is facing increased demand and strain right now. Financial hardship, food and housing insecurity, and major life changes that many Aussies are experiencing is directly impacting outcomes for pets too.”

“Incredible community support initiatives like this are vital in raising awareness, funding care and critical program costs, and helping to keep pets safe and sound in loving homes.”

Caring for rescue pets comes at a significant cost. For PetRescue’s rescue organisation members, it costs on average around $50 per day to care for a dog and $30 per day for a cat. Based on the number of cats and dogs currently listed on PetRescue, these organisations are collectively spending almost $280,000 every day, highlighting both the scale of need and the importance of continued community support.

Since the campaign began, Stores for Paws has raised more than $500,000 for animal welfare organisations and helped facilitate the adoption of more than 700 pets. The limited-edition Bunnings pet hoodies are available exclusively in-store while stocks last, priced at $10 and available in sizes Small to XX-Large. Bunnings continues to grow its pet offering, with a wide range of affordable pet products, treats and accessories available in-store, making it easier for customers to care for their pets while supporting initiatives that give back to the community.

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