Help save a life

Your donations provide food, shelter and veterinary care for the animals until we can find them new, loving homes.

Next adoption day

Saturday 5th October 2024

All kittens, cats, dogs and puppies up for adoption will be there, plus a good bbq and services for your fur babies. See you there!

Looking to adopt a furry friend?

We are a self-funded, not-for-profit charity dedicated to providing foster care and new homes for abandoned, abused, lost, and unwanted dogs and cats in the Northern Rivers region of NSW.

Become a Volunteer

We’re always looking for people who want to foster pets, volunteer at our shop in Ballina, help out at our shelter, join in our community events, or assist with general office duties in Ballina.

Become a foster carer

Adopt a furry friend

Donations

Subsidised desexing

Welcome to

NRAS Northern Rivers Animal Services

Established in 2001, Northern Rivers Animal Services (NRAS) is a self-funded, not-for-profit, registered charity committed to rescuing abandoned, abused, lost and unwanted dogs and cats in the Northern Rivers region of NSW.

Its mission is to provide food, veterinary care, and shelter to allow these animals a second chance at “living their best life”.

Adoption Days are hosted on the first Saturday of the month at the NRAS Rescue Shelter – 61 Piper Drive, Ballina from 10:00am – 1:00pm where you can meet the animals available for adoption; utilise the $10.00 services such as microchipping, nail clipping and hydrobathing or purchase essential pet supplies and accessories from the pop-up merchandise store.

We hope to see you there!!!

What are the steps to adopt a pet at NRAS?

Are you ready to have a pet?

Owning a pet is a huge responsibility. Are you and your family ready for it? Consider if you have enough space, time and budget for it. View our “Are you ready for a pet checklist” if you need some guidance.

Complete an ADOPTION QUESTIONNAIRE

The first step in the NRAS Adoption process is to complete an Adoption Questionnaire that will be reviewed and assessed by the NRAS team to ensure the animals are matching with suitable adoptive families.

Proof of home ownership or landlord approval to have an animal (if renting) is a mandatory requirement of the Adoption process.

Arrange a "meet & greet"

Once your Adoption Questionnaire has been processed, the NRAS team will arrange an opportunity to meet the animal you’re interested in, spending time getting to know each other.

A two-week trial period is also part of the Adoption process to ensure all parties, including children and other pets, are happy with the new family addition.

Animals remain with their foster carer or at the NRAS Rescue Shelter until a permanent, loving home becomes available and are all desexed, microchipped, vet checked and vaccinated prior to the Adoption being finalised.

Want to get involved?

NRAS is continuously seeking volunteers to assist in various areas of the organisation, from foster caring, volunteering at the Shelter, helping with administration and office tasks, providing animal transportation, tending to the gardens &/or general maintenance, helping out at events or working in the Op Shop.

Additionally, for a nominal annual membership fee you can help to maintain the organisation’s charitable status, can vote at the Annual General Meeting and/or can stand for a Committee position.

What to do when…

What to do if you find a stray or abandoned cat or dog?

Any lost pets must initially be brought to a local Council Pound for a microchip scan and possibly returned to their owner. In case an owner can’t be reached or if there’s no microchip, the animal should be taken to the Pound. Once at the Pound, dogs or cats have a chance to be claimed. If they aren’t claimed within the set time (14 days for pets with ID and 7 days for those without), they can be given to a local Rescue organization or adopted by a member of the public.

What to do if you lose your cat or dog?

If your pet goes missing, start your search at home by checking in unexpected places where your pet might hide. Look around your property, behind furniture, in the garage, and even in the garden. Next, explore your local streets and reach out to your neighbors for assistance. Ensure your pet wears a properly fitting collar with an ID tag containing your current contact information to aid in their return. Contact local vets, the Council/Pound, and animal rescue organizations, like NRAS at 6681 1860 and ARRG at 6622 1881. Spread the word by doing a widespread letterbox drop and posting information on community noticeboards, shops, supermarkets, beach tracks, and social media. Above all, make sure your pet is microchipped and keep your details up to date with your local council in case of any address or contact changes.

What to do if you need to re-home your cat or dog?

If you think you may need to rehome your cat or dog, please view our article What to do if I need to re-home my pet for good advise. If you want to surrender it through NRAS, please complete our questionnaire here. 

Have you got more questions? You may find the answers here.

We are on Facebook

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

Happy Friday!

Just a bit of puppy cuteness to get you through the weekend.

These little Bluey x rascals are so much fun.
Inquisitive, adventurous and ridiculously cute they will grow to be active and intelligent mid sized dogs.

To view their full profiles chek out nras.org.au or email shelter@nras.org.au
... See MoreSee Less

Happy Friday! 

Just a bit of puppy cuteness to get you through the weekend.

These little Bluey x rascals are so much fun. 
Inquisitive, adventurous and ridiculously cute they will grow to be active and intelligent mid sized dogs.

To view their full profiles chek out nras.org.au or email shelter@nras.org.auImage attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment

16 CommentsComment on Facebook

When is your adoption day ? Northern Rivers Animal Services Inc - NRAS

Penny Emery this little cuties are available now. I just visited them today. So bloody cute.

Hi I'm very interested in the bluey and the back and white puppy

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Don't forget about us!

Scout, Socks, Chloe, Saba and Junie are just some of the adult cats we have in care who are waiting patiently to find their forever homes.

Each of these beautiful felines are unique, delightful and ready to find their perfect match.

Whether you are looking for a playful and active cat or a cat that's easy going and affectionate. We will take the time to learn about your lifestyle, living situation and expectations to help match you with a cat that suits your home life.

Is your new best friend here?

Call 0266811860 or email shelter@nras.org.au for more information. To view pet profiles visit nras.org.au
... See MoreSee Less

Dont forget about us!

Scout, Socks, Chloe, Saba and Junie are just some of the adult cats we have in care who are waiting patiently to find their forever homes.

Each of these beautiful felines are unique, delightful and ready to find their perfect match.

Whether you are looking for a playful and active cat or a cat thats easy going and affectionate. We will take the time to learn about your lifestyle, living situation and expectations to help match you with a cat that suits your home life.

Is your new best friend here? 

Call 0266811860 or email shelter@nras.org.au for more information. To view pet profiles visit nras.org.auImage attachmentImage attachment+2Image attachment

5 CommentsComment on Facebook

Kelly Dymand, Scout is the handsome tabby and Junie is the black cat lounging on the chair 🙂

Older cats are the best!! Past their kitten silliness but still enjoy a game. We’ve adopted two older cats and they’ve both been amazing - loving, calm and fun. Please don’t ever overlook a cat because of its age. The rewards of adopting an older feline are simply too many to mention.

What a selection Gorgeous!

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PET OF THE WEEK
Mandatory Re-homing #R251 00 00 60

11-month-old Holly is an affectionate and inquisitive short coat tabby with a stunning coat and captivating jewel-coloured eyes.

Holly is the kind of cat that is very easy to fall in love with. She is easy company, enjoying the company of humans, but not needy and demanding.

Content to find a sunny spot for a nap or ready for a play session, Holly is a gentle and endearing presence in the home. Could your home be the perfect fit for Holly?


All animals in NRAS’ care are vet checked, flea & worm treated, vaccinated, microchipped and desexed prior to their adoption.

For further information contact the NRAS Shelter Office on 6681 1860 or email: shelter@nras.org.au

Download an Adoption Questionnaire from the website: www.nras.org.au
... See MoreSee Less

PET OF THE WEEK
Mandatory Re-homing #R251 00 00 60

11-month-old Holly is an affectionate and inquisitive short coat tabby with a stunning coat and captivating jewel-coloured eyes.

Holly is the kind of cat that is very easy to fall in love with. She is easy company, enjoying the company of humans, but not needy and demanding. 

Content to find a sunny spot for a nap or ready for a play session, Holly is a gentle and endearing presence in the home. Could your home be the perfect fit for Holly?

  
All animals in NRAS’ care are vet checked, flea & worm treated, vaccinated, microchipped and desexed prior to their adoption.

For further information contact the NRAS Shelter Office on 6681 1860 or email: shelter@nras.org.au

Download an Adoption Questionnaire from the website:  www.nras.org.au

2 CommentsComment on Facebook

Very cute photo of Holly. She’ll win lots of hearts.

Lovely girl

CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR CLOSURES
Please note the following closure dates:

- NRAS RESCUE SHELTER will close @4:00pm on Friday 20 December and re-open @10:00am on Thursday 2 January. There will be NO Adoption Day in January.

- NRAS OP SHOP will close @3:00pm on Monday 23 December and re-open on Saturday 4 January

We wish you & yours a safe and happy festive season.
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CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR CLOSURES
Please note the following closure dates:

- NRAS RESCUE SHELTER will close @4:00pm on Friday 20 December and re-open @10:00am on Thursday 2 January.  There will be NO Adoption Day in January.

- NRAS OP SHOP will close @3:00pm on Monday 23 December and re-open on Saturday 4 January

We wish you & yours a safe and happy festive season.

4 CommentsComment on Facebook

Happy Christmas to all the wonderful people at NRAS who devote so much of their time, energy and hearts to the dogs and cats in need. Enjoy your break.

Merry Christmas to you all have a safe and happy new year. You all do such a marvellous job. Boo who we adopted this year sends love to you all. (WOOF!) x

Merry Christmas to everyone It’s a wonderful organisation to belong to Thank you all 💕💕💕🎅

To every generous individual and business group who have made a donation from our Christmas wishlist or through our website, Thank you!

Every item, every financial donation is appreciated and put to good use.

We appreciate you thinking of us and helping us support our little friends who don't have a voice.

Merry Christmas!
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To every generous individual and business group who have made a donation from our Christmas wishlist or through our website, Thank you!

Every item, every financial donation is appreciated and put to good use.

We appreciate you thinking of us and helping us support our little friends who dont have a voice.

Merry Christmas!

4 CommentsComment on Facebook

You guys do an amazing job! When i turned up today i only seen smiling friendly doggos. It was a happy Well taken lunch break for me. Thank you for taking care of the furry friends who need it 💙

And to Caitlin Smith bless your heart

Louise Brown bless your heart

Little kelpie x Koolie pup, Pascal has been learning how to roll with the big dogs.

Having playtime and learning social skills is so important for a puppy's development and confidence.

Pascal is ready for the world and a lifetime of adventure! Let's hope he finds his forever home soon.
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13 CommentsComment on Facebook

His gorgeous little puppy so is his playmate

Pascal is a total cutie and Lucy is the best at teaching little four paws (canine and feline) how to behave.

And Lucy is very patient

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PET OF THE WEEK
Mandatory Re-homing #R251 00 00 60

Stunning 3-month-old American Staffy x pup Jax has an eye catching orange brindle coat and deep eyes to make you melt.

Although Jax will grow to be a big boy, he is a softy a heart. Jax has a gentle disposition and can be a little shy when meeting new people. Once he gets to know you, he loves a snuggle and to watch your every move with those gorgeous eyes.

Jax is growing more confident with new dogs and takes a slow submissive approach to toward new K9 friends. He would suit a home as an only dog, or with an adult dog to mentor him.


All animals in NRAS’ care are vet checked, flea & worm treated, vaccinated, microchipped and desexed prior to their adoption.

For further information contact the NRAS Shelter Office on 6681 1860 or email: shelter@nras.org.au

Download an Adoption Questionnaire from the website: www.nras.org.au
... See MoreSee Less

PET OF THE WEEK
Mandatory Re-homing #R251 00 00 60

Stunning 3-month-old American Staffy x pup Jax has an eye catching orange brindle coat and deep eyes to make you melt.

Although Jax will grow to be a big boy, he is a softy a heart. Jax has a gentle disposition and can be a little shy when meeting new people. Once he gets to know you, he loves a snuggle and to watch your every move with those gorgeous eyes.

Jax is growing more confident with new dogs and takes a slow submissive approach to toward new K9 friends. He would suit a home as an only dog, or with an adult dog to mentor him.

  
All animals in NRAS’ care are vet checked, flea & worm treated, vaccinated, microchipped and desexed prior to their adoption.

For further information contact the NRAS Shelter Office on 6681 1860 or email: shelter@nras.org.au

Download an Adoption Questionnaire from the website:  www.nras.org.au

7 CommentsComment on Facebook

We don’t know if we could adopt right now as we have some travel coming up, but we could definitely foster for a couple of months if that helps!

He's absolutely adorable...and a total lovebug

He is a very sweet boy.

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