For almost 80 years, Sydney Dogs & Cats Home (SDCH) has been a place of second chances. Every day, they open their doors to lost, abandoned, and neglected animals across Sydney. The wonderful team there give them the medical care, shelter, and love they need until they can find a family to call their own.
But as the need for their services grows, so does the need for a safe, permanent facility where this work can continue for generations to come.
That’s why SDCH has launched the Make Home Happen appeal – a vision to build a lasting sanctuary for Sydney’s most vulnerable pets.
From eviction to a grand vision
After being evicted from their premises two years ago due to re-development plans, the Sydney Dogs & Cats Home has been operating from two temporary facilities ever since.
And with the increasing number of abandoned pets – a situation greatly impacted by post-COVID-19 circumstances and the cost-of-living crisis – the team need all the support they can get to reach their project goal.
The Make Home Happen appeal is about building a new home in Kurnell that can help over 3,000 animals each year. That’s more than double what they can currently facilitate!
Having secured $12 million from the NSW government already, they’re over half way to raising the required $21.6 million to build their new home. Now, they’re asking the community of pet lovers and pet parents across Australia to help.
Read more about their progress to date >
How Sydney Dogs & Cats Home help vulnerable pets:
Building a home of hope
With thousands of animals come through the doors of Sydney Dogs & Cats Home each year.
Many arrive frightened, unwell, or unsure of what’s ahead.
SDCH provides shelter, food, veterinary care, and love to these vulnerable dogs and cats.
The Sydney Dogs & Cats Home isn’t like other shelters, either. They’re the only not-for-profit pound in Sydney that never places time limits on an animal’s stay.
Their new Home of Hope will not only provide modern kennels and catteries, but will also provide dedicated spaces for the animals to reduce stress, support rehabilitation, and give them the very best chance at adoption.
It’s more than a building. It’s about dignity, compassion, and the promise of a brighter future.
Impact stories
Behind every number and every fundraising milestone is a real animal whose life has been transformed.
From shy cats who learn to trust again, to loyal dogs who finally find their forever families, these stories remind us exactly why their Make Home Happen appeal is so important.
Here are just a few of the pets whose journeys capture what Sydney Dogs & Cats Home is all about.
“Cosmo is a gentle, older dog who thrives in a peaceful and quiet environment. He is happiest simply being close to his people, appreciating the comfort of a soft bed and the calm of a steady routine. While he does enjoy the occasional playful moment, Cosmo mostly prefers to relax and quietly be part of the daily life around him.
He is easygoing with other dogs and enjoys their company without needing to be the centre of attention. Cosmo’s affectionate and calm nature makes him a perfect companion for someone seeking a loyal friend who values simple comforts — a warm sunny spot, a cosy place to rest, and the presence of loved ones.
If you have a quiet home and a kind heart to offer, Cosmo could be the perfect addition to your family.”
Learn more about adopting Cosmo >
“Mirabella came into our care as a tiny kitten in July 2024. From the very beginning, she faced health challenges due to a congenital heart condition, which required regular medication and frequent veterinary monitoring. Despite her delicate start, Mirabella’s resilience and strength have been remarkable. She has spent her entire life in care, supported by our dedicated team and veterinary specialists to manage her condition and ensure she thrives.
Over recent months, Mirabella has made an incredible recovery. After thorough health assessments, it was confirmed that her heart murmur is no longer detectable, and she no longer requires any medication. This full recovery is a testament to the care she has received and her own fighting spirit.
Mirabella’s personality is just as bright as her health has improved. She is a confident, affectionate cat who loves to explore and play, often zooming around with a cheeky and playful energy. At the same time, she is a devoted cuddle companion, purring up a storm and enjoying quiet moments of affection. Mirabella adapts well to different environments and would be a great fit for households with children or other pets.”
Learn more about adopting Mirabella >
“Meeko has just turned one and is still hoping his birthday wish comes true – a loving forever home. Full of energy, curiosity, and charm, Meeko is a clever and affectionate dog who thrives on learning. He’s food-motivated, eager to please, and always ready to show off his growing list of tricks. He walks beautifully on lead, and continues to improve his social manners with each passing day.
Meeko came into our care as a small puppy in June 2024 and has spent the past year moving between foster homes, the shelter, and a couple of adoptions that sadly didn’t work out. Despite the ups and downs, Meeko has remained sweet-natured and resilient. With the support of our team, he’s developed strong foundational skills and is ready to settle into a consistent, loving home where he can truly thrive.
This playful one-year-old adores people and loves to be part of the action, whether it’s training, playtime, or just hanging out with his humans. He’s also a social butterfly with other dogs and would love a canine companion to run around with and learn from. His joyful energy and enthusiasm are contagious, making him a delight to have around.
Meeko is looking for a home with someone who can offer him patience, consistency, and plenty of love. He has so much potential and is more than ready to find his match – someone who will appreciate his smarts, affection, and goofy charm. After a year of searching, we just know his perfect person is out there.”
Learn more about adopting Meeko >
How you can help the Sydney Dogs & Cats Home
While their appeal for support is well under way, there’s still $8 million left to reach the target.
So, SDCH are bringing the community together through their fundraising event, Hope Blooms. If you’re in Sydney, consider coming along and being part of a truly special night.
This event celebrates everything pets bring into our lives while raising money to make the new facility in Kurnell a reality. Every ticket sold brings us one step closer to “making home happen” for animals who need it most.
And if you can’t attend the event? You can still be part of the mission. Every donation, big or small, helps build the sanctuary where tails will wag, purrs will echo, and hope will truly bloom.
How every donation helps:
Every donation will directly contribute to building a new shelter that will:
- Support over 3,000 incoming animals every year (more than double the current intake)
- Increase adoptions to over 2,000 annually
- Ensure over 1,000 lost pets are reunited with their families annually
- Increase foster care placements to over 800 pets awaiting adoption
- Expand current services to more Sydney Councils
- Improve Sydney’s animal welfare and management
- Extend community outreach programs to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable Sydneysiders in aged care and domestic violence situations, provide mental health support to various groups, and support people in criminal justice programs
- Offer TAFE and University students studying veterinary sciences research, training, and practical education opportunities
Be part of a community that cares
Behind every adoption story is a network of people who believe in giving animals a second chance. Whether you’ve adopted from SDCH before, attended an event, or simply cheered them on from afar, you’re part of that story too!
Together, we can make sure Sydney Dogs & Cats Home continues to be a place of safety, healing, and love… now and for the future.
Because every pet deserves not just shelter, but a home.
