Pet Insurance Australia has become gold sponsor for the 2019 JetPets Companion Animal Rescue Awards, which recognises rescue groups and animal shelters for their tireless work to save countless companion animals.

Award categories include Outstanding Rescue Group, Outstanding New Rescue Group (new in 2019), Outstanding Animal Shelter, Outstanding Council Animal Shelter, Innovation in Rescue, Community Education and Outreach Program, Volunteer of the Year, and Advocate People’s Rescue Story.

“Every year, 186,000 pets remain unclaimed in Australia’s pounds and shelters, and thousands of volunteers support over 900 rescue and animal shelters across Australia,” said Cathy Beer, Rescue Awards founder and rescue advocate from Pets4Life.

To reduce the number of pets ending up in a rehoming situation, PIA’s Nadia Crighton encourages all possible pet owners to consider carefully before welcoming a pet into their home and their lives.

“It is a 16 to 20-year commitment and needs to be carefully considered,” Crighton said. “When choosing a new family member many factors needs to be taken into account to ensure that your furry friend will always fit in your home and environment.”