Second Chance Animal Rescue

Second Chance Animal Rescue was founded in 2008 after vet nurse and local shelter volunteer Marisa Debattista witnessed firsthand how many beautiful animals needed help, versus how little resources were available.

Knowing she could make a change, Marisa launched Second Chance Animal Rescue with a few vet nurse friends and a handful of animals. Since then, we've grown into a network of hundreds of foster carers and other volunteers, with just as many cats and dogs in care. We're proud to say that by the end of 2021 over 12,000 animals had been rescued from not-so-pleasant fates in pounds and shelters throughout Victoria, and are now happily settled in new homes around the state. (Of course, our adopters will tell you, the question remains about just who saved who!)

On April 19th, 2015, after many years of planning and endless fundraising efforts, our first animal shelter opened in Campbellfield, Victoria. This shelter allowed us to save more animals and gives potential adopters the chance to meet animals in a happy, relaxed space. Then in 2019, we moved into an even bigger facility in Craigieburn- not only with a bigger and better Animal Shelter, but we now also run a huge Community Animal Hospital, Boarding Cattery, Dog Training area and mulitple pet Outreach Programs focused on keeping disadvantaged pet owners and beloved pets together!

Second Chance Animal Rescue is a not-for-profit organisation with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status, meaning all donations over $2 are tax deductible.