RSPCA Illawarra's Pets of the Week: Meet Diesel and Delilah

Meet our lovable Pets of the Week looking for forever homes while at the RSPCA Illawarra Shelter

If you’ve been on the fence about adopting a dog, this month’s RSPCA promotion could be a sign.

Thanks to the generosity of a single donor all dogs and puppies in the Illawarra and across the state have had their adoption fees waived until Sunday 15 September.

To help your new family member settle in smoothly and further help with the costs of adopting, new owners will also receive a complimentary care package.

Each care package includes a 12-month RSPCA veterinary care voucher, a one-month supply of Advocate flea and tick prevention, canine food from Royal Canin and a surprise gift of either a dog toy from Kazoo Pet, a stylish lead from DOGUE or a collapsible water bowl from Pablo & Co. Boutique.

Although adoption costs are waived, normal adoption procedures still apply. This ensures every dog is matched with the right family that understands their needs. To see the dogs available for adoption at the Illawarra shelter, or across the state, go to www.adoptapet.com.au.

Dog of the week: Diesel

Meet Diesel!

Diesel is an eight-month-old bullmastiff puppy with a big heart, big paws, and even bigger cuddles to share!

He’s searching for his forever home where he can become a much-loved member of the family.

Bullmastiffs like Diesel are known for their loyal, gentle, and protective nature, making them fantastic pets for those who appreciate a large, affectionate dog who loves to be close to his people.

Diesel would thrive in a home where he can enjoy both indoor and outdoor time, join his family for regular walks and snuggle up on a cozy bed by their feet in the evening.

Diesel is a big fan of food-related enrichment, especially when it involves snuffle mats or any toy that hides a tasty treat inside. These activities help keep his mind sharp and his body active, so he needs a family who enjoys engaging him with fun, interactive feeders and toys.

He would do best in a home with children over 12 who are confident around dogs, as he can get a little jumpy when excited. With ongoing training, Diesel has the potential to be the best dog he can be and learn all the tricks in the book.

After a day of fun and play, Diesel loves to nap in a quiet, safe space like his own bed or a crate. As he is still a growing puppy it is important that he learns where his safe space is and gets plenty of rest.

Diesel is such a happy boy he finds it hard to control his tail – event when it hurts him. Wagging it a mile a minute in the confined shelter environment has led to him getting ‘happy tail’, which RSPCA vets are more than happy to discuss with his new owners.

Once he’s out of the shelter and doesn’t have so many obstacles in the way of his wildly wagging bottom, he’ll just need to pop back in for a check-up.

Diesel is a friendly boy who gets along well with other friendly and playful dogs. If there’s already a dog in the household, a meet-and-greet would be great to see if they’ll be the best of friends.

Cat of the week: Delilah

Hey there, it’s Delilah!

Delilah is a stunning six-month-old silver tabby cat with striking green eyes and a heart full of love.

Despite her young age, Delilah has already faced some challenges in life, but she hasn’t let that stop her.

Her rough start has made her a bit cautious and fearful at times but underneath her timid exterior is a sweet and gentle soul just waiting to blossom in the right environment.

Over the past few weeks, Delilah has worked closely with RSPCA staff to build her confidence, and each day she becomes a little more comfortable.

Delilah would benefit from a family that is willing to continue to guide her as she grows into the wonderful cat she’s meant to be.

She would thrive in a calm, understanding household where her new family can be patient with her as she continues to learn that the world isn’t such a scary place.

She would do best in a home with children over 12 who can respect her boundaries and help build her confidence.

Delilah has been exposed to feline coronavirus and cat flu whilst in care, but this is not transmissible to us humans! She has also been given some medication to help her while she lives at the shelter, but she will be able to go without this once in a beautiful home of her own.

Even if you’re a thousand miles away, if you believe Delilah just looks so pretty, please come and meet her at the Illawarra shelter! Times Square can’t shine as bright as her; we swear it’s true.

Previous pets of the week Pizza, Ralphee and Cardinal have found their forever homes, and sisters Maisy and Ruby are currently on a trial adoption.

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.