Other than monetary donations, we’re grateful for your support and donations of pet supplies.
As a charity that receives no ongoing government funding, every donated item means vital funds can be redirected to where it is needed most. We are happy to accept donations of brand new or pre-loved goods. Please take a look at our FAQ below to find out what we can and can’t take.
We have also put together a wish list of items that we are in need of at the moment to make it easier for you to donate goods to us.
Unopened and in date dog and cat food and treats
Flea and worming treatment
Pet bedding
Toys
Collars and leashes
Food bowls and interactive feeders
Cat litter and litter box
Travel crates/collapsible kennels
Pet food/treats/medication that is opened/expired
Pet items that are ripped/torn/stained
Bedding such as doona and pillows
Towels
Anything not pet related i.e. sleeping bag, clothing
Please Think Before Donating...
“Would I use this for my own pets?”
It’s a wonderful thing to think of others, and we absolutely appreciate that when something wears out or reaches its expiry date, you might think of passing it on to someone less privileged than yourself.
However, the sad fact is that when a person is experiencing homelessness or financial hardship, they are already receiving messages from society that they are “less than” — that they should simply be grateful for whatever they are given, no matter what state it’s in.
We disagree with that!
A person who is struggling has every right to feel that they are just as worthy as anyone else — because they are! And their animals are just as worthy as all other pets. If something is ripped, dirty, old, expired or at the point where you wouldn’t use it for your animal companions, it’s not good enough for the pets of people we assist either.
We ask that when you consider making a donation, you first ask yourself, “Is this something that I would be happy to receive myself?” If not, put yourself in the shoes of somebody relying on community support, and perhaps reconsider donating it.
FAQ
What can I donate to Pets Of The Homeless?
We are happy to accept items that are brand new as well as used. When considering donating pre-loved goods to us, our rule of thumb is: if you’d give it to a friend, then it’s ok to give to us. We will accept the following if they are in new or near new and clean condition:
- Unopened and in date dog and cat food and treats
- Flea and worming treatmentÂ
- Pet bedding
- ToysÂ
- Collars and leashes
- Food bowls and interactive feeders
- Cat litter and litter box
- Travel crates/collapsible kennels
What can’t I donate to Pets Of The Homeless?
It takes a lot of money and volunteer hours to sort and dispose of the items we get that we can’t pass on. Please do not donate the following:
- Pet food/treats/medication that is opened/expired
- Pet items that are ripped/torn/stained
- Bedding such as doona and pillows
- Towels
- Anything not pet related i.e sleeping bag, tent, clothing
What I want to donate isn’t listed above
If you have an item that isn’t listed anywhere above, you can email us at hello@petsofthehomeless.org.au to find out if it’s suitable.Â
I’ve only just opened a bag of kibble and my pet does not like it, can I donate it?
Unfortunately due to health and safety reasons, we are only able to accept unopened and in date food.
Is there a particular brand of food you prefer?
While we accept all brands of food, we believe in using high-quality food because we think the hungry animals deserve that. Some of our preferred brands include Canidae, Black Hawk, Advance, Eukanuba, Meals For Mutts and Scratch.
How can I donate to Pets Of The Homeless?
Donations can be dropped off at our HQ at 84A Keys Road, Cheltenham VIC 3192. Our opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-1pm. We are closed on public holidays. Our donation bin is accessible via the main entrance.Â
Alternatively, you are welcome to purchase the items online and have them delivered to us to the same address.
Is it better to donate goods or money?
While we absolutely appreciate both, monetary donations tend to be more helpful for a number of reasons. Firstly, we are able to redirect donated funds to where they are needed the most, whether that's pet food, veterinary care or paying for emergency kennelling to pets in crisis.
When you donate money to us, we are able to buy the items we need in bulk and at a reduced cost. We are also able to claim back the GST component of the purchase, which means your donation dollars stretch even further.
On top of that, Pets Of The Homeless is a DGR1 charity, meaning that any amount you donate over $2 is tax deductible.
But however you choose to support us, we could not be more grateful. We truly appreciate you from the bottoms of our hearts. THANK YOU!
Can you collect donations from my home?
Unfortunately as a volunteer-powered charity, we do not have the resources to pick up donations from someone directly.
Prior to donation, please ensure all items are cleaned. For other donations not listed, kindly reach out to us to see if we can accept it. You can email us at hello@petsofthehomeless.org.au.
Host A Donation Drive
Host a pet food donation drive at your workplace, school or among your family and friends. Because the need is great, we can’t do it alone. You can make a huge difference today in helping us feed the hungry animals that count on us for their meal.
