Wednesday 22nd October, 2025

RSPCA ACT open day and opportunity to support community Pet Pantry

"Paw-sitive news! RSPCA ACT is issuing a tail-wagging invitation to come sniff out the sounds and sights of the animals and the people who care for them at the Weston shelter this Saturday, 25th October. 

There’s guided tours on offer, opportunities for a chat with our fur-tastic staff, coffee and food and a peek into the new Community Pantry that’s feeding hope one paw at a time!"

CEO Michelle Robertson said RSPCA ACT is keen for their supporters and community to frequently visit, learn more about how the shelter operates and the services it provides. 

RSPCA ACT’s Pet Pantry has enjoyed a ‘soft launch’ and over the past three months already distributed nearly three tons of pet food to community groups in Canberra to further support people in need or who are doing it tough.

“We believe it is important to keep families together, two legged and four,” said Ms Robertson.

“We want pets to be with the humans who love them.  Costs of living pressures can build quickly and access to pet food is another way we can help people, so they do not have to surrender their pets,” she said.

Food for the Pet Pantry is donated from Royal Canin, the Animal Rescue Cooperative and the members of the public. Food is delivered to multiple community organisations who distribute it to people in need.

This Saturday visitors to the RSPCA ACT shelter are asked if they are able to do so, to bring either a bag or tin of pet food to support the pet pantry.

“The Open Day includes tours of the shelter, enrichment activities designing items for shelter animals and your own pets, food and coffee, retail stalls and more.  And of course, we would be delighted if some of our animals are adopted,” said Ms Robertson.

Ms Robertson encourages conversations with staff and volunteers.

“It’s the start of kitten season and while we gear up at the shelter, you can find out things like how you can help or what to do if you come across a litter of kitties,” she said.

RSPCA ACT Shelter Open Day is Saturday, October 25 from 10am-1pm. If it is a hot day, please consider bringing a hat and wear sunscreen. 

A vehicle will be parked in the RSPCA ACT main car park to collect donated pet food.

*Despite the obvious irony, please do not bring your pets.