Inverell Barnyard, located at 2-8 Mansfield Street will be hosting Save A Life Animal Adoption and fundraising day this Saturday.

The idea is the brainchild of national, independent pet store group Just For Pets, teaming up with their member stores like Inverell Barnyard and associated rescues.

"Save A Life Day is your chance to adopt an animal that desperately needs a home. We will be partnering with Kitty Cat Cove, a local rescue centre specializing in abandoned cats and kittens," a spokesperson said.

Animals can spend up to two years waiting in animal refuges because pet lovers don't often come face to face with them. Making an animal visible is the key to re-housing and adoption.

Save A Life Day raises awareness of the importance of pets in our lives. Pet ownership brings with it many health benefits including more physical exercise, less anxiety and stress, and lessons for children (and sometimes even adults!) on responsibility and empathy.

It provides an opportunity to fundraise for pets in need. Each store has played a huge part in raising funds for their chosen rescue by way of barbecues, raffles, cupcake stalls and overall donations in stores.

"By showcasing rescue animals in search of forever homes through our national adoption day it gives them an extra window of exposure to pet owners who may not know the options available to acquire a rescue pet."

Visit Kitty Cat Cove on Facebook to see some adorable photographs of cats and kittens who are in need of a loving home.

All cats up for adoption have been vaccinated, microchipped, and de-sexed. Plus, every pet parent who adopts a new furry friend will receive a gift bag filled with pet goodies.

More information about Save A Life can be found here.