13 July 2025

RSPCA Illawarra’s Pets of the Week: Meet Skipper and Rusty!

| By Zoe Cartwright
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Let Skipper launch himself into your life!

Let Skipper launch himself into your life! Photo: Illawarra RSPCA.

Meet our loveable Pets of the Week looking for their forever homes while at the RSPCA Illawarra Shelter.

Dog of the week: Skipper

Meet Skipper!

Skipper is a seven-month-old bull terrier cross pup who has mastered the art of doing tricks for treats!

Skipper is one of the shelter’s longest residents at almost six months in care, and he’s put that time to good use.

He has already mastered boring old sit and stay, and can also hop onto a couch or bed on cue, follow your hand and perform a range of adorable rope tricks.

Skipper’s a quick study who thrives on treats, positive reinforcement, and a gentle guiding hand.

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Still looking to build his confidence in a busy world, Skipper is looking for an experienced family who can help him continue to learn and grow.

While Skipper can be shy around other dogs, he may be open to sharing a home with a friendly canine companion — he’d just like to meet them first to make sure they’re a good match.

Skipper may need a bit of extra time and support to truly settle in, but for the right person, he promises to be a deeply devoted and loyal best friend.

If Rusty fits, he sits - in paddling pools and maybe even on your lap.

If Rusty fits, he sits – in paddling pools and maybe even on your lap. Photo: Illawarra RSPCA.

Dog of the week: Rusty

Meet Rusty!

Rusty is a loveable two-year-old ridgeback mix whose tail never stops wagging!

Weighing in at 39 kg, Rusty is the embodiment of big puppy energy.

Don’t let his larger stature fool you: once he learns to trust you, Rusty isn’t afraid to climb into your heart (or onto your lap) whenever he gets the chance.

Rusty thrives when he’s able to soak up the sun, chase after his favourite soft toys, and enjoy his all-time favourite treat: a cream cheese-covered lick mat.

He’s the ultimate combo of silly and sweet, and is always ready for a cuddle or a game.

He gets along well with other dogs, though he’s a rough-and-tumble kind of player — so any potential doggy siblings will need to be able to match his energy and meet him beforehand to ensure a good match.

READ ALSO RSPCA Illawarra’s Pets of the Week: Meet Jax and Matilda

Although Rusty has been searching for a home for more than 290 days, he’s as eager as ever to bring his fun-loving attitude to the family of his dreams.

With an experienced owner familiar with larger dog breeds, Rusty is sure to become the devoted, well-mannered companion he was always meant to be.

If you’re ready for love, big laughs, and big cuddles, Rusty might just be your perfect match.

Previously featured RSPCA Dog of the Week, Jax, has found his forever home, while previously featured Cat of the Week, Matilda, is still on the prowl for hers.

Visit the RSPCA at 54 Industrial Rd, Unanderra, and add a new companion to your life – you won’t regret it! Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 3:30 pm. Closed Mondays and public holidays. Call 4271 3410.

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