The Petbarn Foundation has surpassed its $1.3m fundraising goal, raising an extraordinary $2.1m through its annual Tree of Hope Appeal—making it Australia’s largest fundraising appeal for people and pets. The funds will benefit more than 90 pet-related charities nationwide, directly supporting organisations focused on mental health, animal rescues, homelessness, and domestic violence.
This remarkable achievement was made possible through the generosity of Petbarn customers, Greencross Vets, and Animal Referral & Emergency (AREN) clients who donated in-store, in-clinic, or online.
“Our annual Tree of Hope Appeal changes lives daily, thanks to the incredible generosity of our Petbarn community. Together, we’re creating meaningful change and making 2025 brighter for so many people and pets in need,” Janelle Miller, Petbarn Foundation Manager said.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed to this year’s record-breaking result. Your support makes an extraordinary impact—we couldn’t do this without you.”
The annual appeal comes at a critical time, with research from the Petbarn Foundation and Animal Rescue Cooperative (ARC) revealing that 81 per cent of rescue organisations are near or at full capacity. Additionally, pet surrenders have increased by 85 per cent, while 77 per cent of rescues have reported a significant decline in financial support.
ARC, a grassroots organisation and Petbarn Foundation partner, operates through a network of volunteers and donors to provide essential resources for animals in need.
“The Petbarn Foundation’s Tree of Hope Appeal has a massive and lasting impact on animals in rescue across Australia. Through this program, we can get food, medicine, and support to those who need it most. Thousands of support requests are actioned every year, directly saving animals’ lives. Pets are saved from euthanasia, rescuers face less stress, and families are kept together,” Derek Knox, National Lead at Animal Rescue Cooperative said.
“There are impacts for generations to come from this program, which is now an integral part of Australian society. It is inspiring to see a company give so much back to the sector it serves. We could not operate at this scale without the Tree of Hope Appeal and the Petbarn Foundation.”
All donations received through Greencross Vets and AREN go directly to Vets Beyond Borders, an international animal welfare organisation providing free veterinary services and education worldwide.
“This generous donation from the Petbarn Foundation will directly support Vets Beyond Borders’ work across the Pacific Islands, enabling vital desexing, vaccination, and community education programs. These efforts help reduce the spread of preventable diseases and improve the welfare of animals and communities alike. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact,” Anne-Lloyd Jones, General Manager for Vets Beyond Borders said.
Now in its 11th year, the Petbarn Foundation’s Tree of Hope Appeal has raised over $7 million since its inception in 2014, supporting organisations such as ARC, Vets Beyond Borders, RSPCA, Empower Assistance Dogs, and Pet Medical Crisis.
For more information or to donate, visit www.petbarn.com.au/services/pet-foundation.