What are the requirements to list pets on PetRescue?

PetRescue supports the responsible and ethical rescue of companion animals. Membership is offered to groups and organisations that agree to and abide by the PetRescue Membership Code of Ethics and Pet Listing Rules.

Pets listed on PetRescue:

• Must be genuine rescue pets, presently in a pound/shelter or foster care situation who belong to, and are in the care of, the listing organisation. A pet may remain in the care of its current owner whilst listed on PetRescue, but the listing organisation must take full responsibility for the pet, including desexing and provision for the pet if the adoption fails.
• Must belong to the listing organisation or are part of an assisted rehoming program run by the listing organisation.
• Must not be listed on behalf of any other organisation or individual (member or non-member)
• Must be focused on promoting specific animals currently available for adoption or in need of foster care. Generic listings and listings for items other than rescue pets are not permitted.
• Fully vet-worked and ready for adoption, which includes:
  • Vet checked,
  • Vaccinated (up to date per individual age), 
  • Microchipped,
  • Flea, tick and worm treated; and

  • Desexed*

    * All cats and dogs listed on PetRescue must be desexed (or will be desexed PRIOR to going to their new home) and shall be promoted as such. Exclusions may be granted on a per-animal basis. Please contact the PetRescue team to apply.

• Must not have displayed or have a known history of aggression. This includes: 
  • aggression towards humans or other animals that caused significant physical damage;
  • a pattern of offensive aggression towards humans; or
  • aggression or offensive behaviour towards humans or other animals that would make it difficult or impossible for an average pet owner to safely manage the pet within the community.
• Must be cared for in an environment in which conditions meet or exceed state legislative requirements for the care of companion animals. All members are strongly encouraged to adhere to The Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV) Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters as a minimum standard.

Identification rules for pet listings as per legislation

Each state has requirements for rehoming organisations in place. PetRescue has verified these details with each state's governing body to confirm the requirements of:

• Organisation or rehoming numbers
• Minimum age of sale
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations
• Desexing
• Health checks
• Specific species

To find out more about the rehoming requirements for your state please see this article.

Exemptions to requirements

Whilst desexing, microchipping and vaccinating pets is required for all pets listed on PetRescue, we understand that this may not be a viable or a vet advised option in some cases. If this is not a requirement in your state, please get in touch as we may be able to provide an exemption on a case-by-case basis.

Please see this article for desexing, microchipping and vaccination exemptions by state.

Should you qualify for an exemption and wish to request one for a pet or litter please contact the PetRescue team at PetRescue Members Support.