If you have fancied a pet dog, or even cat, but couldn’t commit just yet, a campaign for the next two weeks could provide the answer.
Taupō SPCA is running a "long stays" campaign from Saturday, September 6 for two weeks, during which long stay animals can be adopted for a koha.
And if it’s a barrier, the koha is optional for the fortnight, says Donna Urquhart, Taupō SPCA centre manager.
“We are waving our adoption fees on long stay residents in the centre, so there is no obligation to make a donation, but it is a much-appreciated thing if you do.”
The centre has an absolute abundance of dogs and puppies at the moment, she says, most of them long stay.
“And most of our cats are also long stay, so lots of animals here to choose from. They love going out with families… It gives them an opportunity to learn about life outside the shelter.
“Take them home, love them, and give them the life that they deserve, because right now even though we do the very best for them in the shelter, it's not the best place for them.”
Urquhart says a short term homestay occasionally leads to permanent formal adoption.
“And that's what we want to see for all of them. Because they all deserve it and a lot of them have been here their entire lives.”
The centre tries not to have euthanasia as a last resort and will move animals within centres, she says, to places like Whanganui, Palmerston North, Wellington, or Tauranga.
One of the centre’s charges they would love to see spend time out is a black and white short-haired pointer called Toby who was found on a dairy farm.
The shy 11 month old is absolutely adorable, Urquhart says.
“We don't know what his previous experience was with men, but he seems to be a little bit wary of men until he gets to know them, but basically what he needs is somewhere to run and be free and burn his beans and be the amazing dog that he can be if I he wasn't in a shelter.”
“We would love to see you guys, even if you just want to come have a look, just come. That's all we're asking. Just come have a look and see if there's not somebody here that will steal your heart.”
The centre at 131 Centennial Drive is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm with an appointment advised for adoptions (phone 07 378 4396).
