Right now, our Kemps Creek Shelter is full, and we’re asking for your help.
More families are being forced to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender a much-loved pet, while fewer people are in a position to adopt. Rising household costs and housing insecurity, including moving into rental accommodation, are putting enormous pressure on people and their animals.
Our CEO, Stephen Albin, says it’s a difficult cycle to break.
“At the moment, we are in a perfect storm,” Mr Albin said. “We have a significant increase in the number of companion animals coming into our care, but fewer people willing to adopt because of their financial circumstances.
“Many animals that come into our care require veterinary treatment and behavioural training before they are ready to find their forever homes, and that takes time.”
Our dedicated foster carers and regional branches are also stretched, and with other animal welfare organisations facing similar pressures, there is very little room left across the system.
Why adopt from AWL NSW?
Every animal adopted from AWL NSW has been desexed, microchipped and vaccinated, and has received the veterinary care and support they need before heading to their new home.
Our staff work hard, priding ourselves on the exceptional standard of care we provide to every animal before they find their forever home.
Our animals receive comprehensive veterinary care, behavioural assessments, enrichment, training and rehabilitation tailored to their individual needs. Our dedicated team of veterinarians, animal attendants and behaviour specialists work together to ensure each animal is healthy, happy and well-prepared for life in a loving home.
We take the time to understand each animal’s unique personality, temperament and needs, allowing us to make thoughtful adoption matches that set both pets and their new families up for long-term success.
When you adopt from AWL NSW, you can feel confident knowing you’re welcoming an animal that has received quality care, attention and preparation for their next chapter.
Find your new best friend
We have dogs, cats and other animals waiting for their forever families. Meet all of our animals looking for a home.
Every adopted animal leaves our care with a comprehensive health package, including:
- Desexing
- Up-to-date vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Heartworm testing and treatment (where applicable)
- Worming and flea treatment
- Application of NSW Lifetime Registration
- A free dose of NexGard SPECTRA for all cats and dogs
Meet Moss

Moss is just one of the many animals in our care who is ready and waiting. This eight-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier is a wonderful example of what a little time and love can do.
He was rescued more than a year ago, found in poor health and in urgent need of veterinary care. With the guidance of our veterinary and shelter teams, Moss spent several months recovering, slowly rebuilding his strength until he was back to full health.
“Today, Moss is a picture of health, with a soft, velvety coat and a happy, affectionate nature,” said Head of Operations, Alisha de Leede-Smith. “He loves human companionship. I can see him thriving in a home where people are around often to share life’s everyday moments and where he can curl up beside them.”
Moss has waited patiently for the family he deserves, and he’s more than ready to be the affectionate, loving and loyal companion someone is looking for. View Moss’ profile here.
How you can help
- Adopt: Browse all of our animals at www.awlnsw.com.au/animals
- Foster: Can’t adopt? Opening your home for a short time can save a life and free up vital space. Apply to be a Foster Carer: www.awlnsw.com.au/foster-care
- Donate: Your gift helps cover the veterinary care and training our animals need. Donate here: www.awlnsw.com.au/donate




