Our Mission

Our Mission

Founded with a clear purpose, Second Chance Animal Rescue Inc. (SCAR) embarked on a mission to rescue and rehome pets in need. In an industry traditionally prioritising animals over people, SCAR’s mission has evolved over the years, recognising that the well-being of both people and their pets are intertwined.

We advocate for accessible pathways that connect pet owners with social service providers, striving towards a common goal: to save lives and support our local communities, nurturing bonds between pets and people alike.

Since our establishment in 2008, SCAR has expanded its focus from animals to include their human companions, fostering a safer, more empathetic community. Our renewed framework drives us towards even greater achievements, ensuring a sustainable impact for vulnerable animals and their owners well into the future.

"Engaging the hearts, hands, and minds of our community to stop the cycle of animal abandonment."

We aim to create a positive, cohesive community where animal owners are supported with accessible resources, enabling them to care for their pets without fear of financial hardship.

Our Vision

"Animals are safe and healthy in the homes where they live and not in shelters due to preventable barriers."

We strive to strengthen the human-animal bond and tackle animal abandonment at its root causes. Through innovative programs, accessible services, community education, and public advocacy, we continue to be a community resource hub for pet owners and an unwavering champion for animals in need.

Our Focus

We help keep community pets with the families who love them by providing preventative pet retention programs within our Animal Shelter, Community Animal Hospital, Behaviour Training Department and various Outreach Programs.

  • Providing food and medical support: to assist the pets of owners struggling financially and ensure they remain healthy and cared for.
  • Rescuing, caring, and training: sick, injured, at-risk, and abandoned companion animals, and finding them new loving homes.
  • Reducing overpopulation: by implementing desexing programs for cats and dogs within our community to stop accidental litters.
  • Educating the public: by offering resources and education on all aspects of responsible pet ownership.
  • Offering safe haven: and providing a temporary home for the pets of people escaping domestic and family violence and/or facing homelessness until they can be reunited.

So far, these programs have had a significant impact on the lives of people and their pets in need throughout Victoria, especially in Melbourne.

Our Core Values

  • Compassion & Respect: Treating all animals and people with kindness and empathy.
  • Teamwork & Leadership: Collaborating to achieve greater results for animals and their people.
  • Honesty & Integrity: Having the courage to do what is right and being accountable for our actions.

Collaboration

Collaboration between animal welfare organisations and human services is essential for effectively supporting people and their pets in our community.

By joining forces, uniting our industries and working together to find solutions, we can address gaps and prevent the unnecessary separation of families and their pets.

 

How You Can Help

SCAR is a not-for-profit organisation with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status, meaning all donations over $2 are tax-deductible. Make a donation today or become a regular donor to keep animals out of pounds and shelters and allow them to stay safe and healthy in their homes where they belong.

Donate Today!