Behind every rescued pet is a story, and at Lort Smith, we’re proud to be part of their journey. Dogs, cats, and small animals from across Melbourne and Victoria come to us after facing difficult circumstances, and our team works tirelessly to give them a safe place to recover and thrive.

If you’re exploring rescue organisations in Melbourne or hoping to meet a rescue dog or cat near you, you’ll find dedicated support here. Our mission goes beyond rescue alone: we care for each animal with patience, rehabilitation, and guidance until they’re ready for a loving home.

Why adopt rescued pets from Lort Smith

Choosing to adopt through Lort Smith means you’re supporting a long-established Melbourne organisation dedicated to animal rescue, rehabilitation, and responsible rehoming. Our focus is on helping each animal recover, feel safe, and find a home where they can thrive.

Our no-euthanasia policy

Lort Smith Adoption Centre provides sanctuary, rehabilitation and welfare for surrendered pets. We follow a clear philosophy: we will never euthanise an animal that is capable of being rehomed, no matter how long it takes. Our team ensures every dog, cat and small pet receives the medical care, behavioural support and time they need before finding the home that best suits them.

Benefits of adoption vs buying

Adoption offers a meaningful alternative to purchasing a pet, giving an animal in need the chance to join a loving home. When you adopt, you’ll also benefit from:

  • Pets who are already health-checked, vaccinated, desexed, and microchipped
  • Support and guidance from our experienced adoption team
  • The opportunity to contribute to ongoing animal welfare efforts in Melbourne

Check out this resource before you adopt a pet, to ensure you understand the long term commitments and needs of owning an animal.

Supporting animal welfare in Melbourne

When you adopt from us, you’re helping protect vulnerable pets and supporting best-practice shelter standards. Lort Smith adheres to the guidelines in the Victorian Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds.

Interesting in adopting a rescue from Lort Smith? Check out our animals for adoption here.