
One-year-old Bruiser is on a quest to find a peaceful, adventure-loving family to call his own. 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: Bruiser
Meet Bruiser!
Bruiser is a lively and affectionate one-year-old Australian kelpie waiting for his forever home at the RSPCA NSW Illawarra Shelter.
True to his breed, Bruiser is full of energy, intelligence, and charm.
He’s always ready for action and would make an excellent companion for someone who leads an active lifestyle and is looking for a four-legged partner to share adventures with.
This clever young dog is still learning the ropes, so he’s best suited to a home with someone who can offer regular training and guidance.
He thrives on mental stimulation and is eager to learn, so puzzle toys, training sessions, and outdoor activities will help keep him engaged and happy.
Bruiser would benefit from an owner with experience handling working breeds and the time to invest in his development.
He gets along well with other dogs and could enjoy having a calm, confident canine friend to show him the way.
However, Bruiser would do best in a quiet home without too much hustle and bustle.
He’s looking for a household where people aren’t away for long hours, so he can enjoy plenty of human company, training, and playtime.
Bruiser is ready to grow into the loyal, well-rounded companion he’s meant to be — all he needs is the right family to help him on his journey.
If you’re looking for a smart, affectionate, and energetic dog to welcome into your home, Bruiser could be the perfect match

Thoroughbred Gatsby has a great big heart – he just needs a home. Photo: RSPCA Illawarra.
Horse of the week: Gatsby
Meet Gatsby!
If you’re looking for a horse with heart and potential, 15-year-old thoroughbred gelding Gatsby is waiting for a patient and experienced adopter to give him a fresh start.
Gatsby is a gentle soul who loves affection and wants nothing more than to have someone to love and care for him.
He thrives on attention, enjoys a good scratch, and won’t say no to a carrot or two.
There’s potential for him to become a riding horse, but he will need retraining to reach his full potential.
He’s ready to start anew with someone who has the confidence and experience to guide him.
Gatsby would suit someone with the time, facilities, and patience to guide him through a new routine, and help him build confidence under saddle.
As a large thoroughbred, Gatsby requires a home with adequate space and secure fencing.
He’s best suited to a confident, knowledgeable horse person who can continue his journey with kindness and consistency.
Gatsby has undergone all routine health checks and has been cleared by vets to go to his new forever home.
To adopt Gatsby, you will need a Property Identification Code (PIC) in NSW.
Gatsby has the heart — now he just needs the home. Could you be the one to give him the fresh start he deserves?
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.
Previous RSPCA Illawarra Pets of the Week, ferret Tornado and lorikeet Yoshi, are still looking for their forever homes.