Meet this year’s 12 Pets of Christmas!

The holidays are a time that many spend with their families – but for the animals in our Centres waiting for homes, their Christmas morning calendars are empty.

We’ve picked a few of them to highlight this week, in the hopes that their families are out there waiting for them. Could you grant one of their Christmas wishes before it’s too late?

One of ten puppies, Shortbread came to our Rotorua Centre with her littermates and mum at less than 12 hours old. Seven months later, she’s still looking for her forever home.

She’s just as sweet as the biscuit she’s named after – her days are filled with playful antics, chasing her tail, and playing endless games of fetch with Centre staff. She’s always up for an adventure, but cuddles are her absolute favourite activity. Unconditional love and fun await her forever family!

Colin was born a stray and spent his early days perfecting his survival skills (and his smouldering good looks). After some time in a foster home, he's decided that humans aren't entirely terrible – as long as they come with food and a respectful attitude.

Colin prefers affection in small, dignified doses and will happily admire you from a comfortable distance. With time and trust, Colin will reward his forever whānau with slow blinks, quiet companionship, and the honour of sharing his refined company.

Lynx came to us as an owner surrender. He was dearly loved once, and now he’s looking for a forever home where he can be cherished all over again.

He’s big, he’s handsome, and he’s very vocal; one of his greatest joys in life is chatting to you about his day. If you’re looking for a companion with a lot of personality (and a love for cuddles), Lynx might just be your man!

Turbo is a beautiful boy with soft stripes and softer eyes. Life hasn't always been easy for him, and as a result, he’s still learning how to trust. But behind his scared and timid exterior is a sweet, gentle soul; he just needs someone who will give him the time and safety he’s never known.

If you have a quiet home and are looking for a companion who appreciates routine and life in the slow lane, Turbo might be perfect for you.

We’ll be honest – we can’t believe Azul is on this list. She’s been waiting for her people since April, and they just haven’t come.

She’s a sweet, affectionate girl with a waggy tail and endless cuddles to give. Though she started out shy and overwhelmed, she’s made strides in her foster home – these days, she’s usually found curled up on the couch under a mountain of blankies.

She’s still learning that the wider world isn’t a scary place, so she needs a quiet, patient home where she can continue to grow her confidence. Whoever chooses her will gain a silly, loyal, loving companion who’s sure to brighten their days!

Khal Drogo and Daenerys have become a loving bonded pair in their time with us, feeling content and settled in their partnership. They love eating together, playing their favourite game of “Whose Nose Gets in First?” in the meantime!

They’re looking for a mature owner who understands and respects bunnies – and who can care for their luscious long coats, either through taking them to a bunny groomer regularly or by being a whiz with the clippers themself.

Known for his sweet and friendly nature, Garfield loves cuddling up to anyone who has a moment to spare. His days are filled with dreams of finding his forever home, where he can give all the love he has in his little body.

He’s sure to be the best companion, always ready to offer you love and affection. Could he be the loyal friend you’re looking for? Let him fill your days with endless joy!

Malvern is a proud and handsome rooster on the lookout for a peaceful rural home where he can rule the roost! Though he isn't currently living with hens, he'd love the opportunity to join and look after a flock.

True to rooster nature, Malvern enjoys strutting his stuff, foraging in the sunshine, and keeping an eye on his surroundings. He'll do best in a home where he has room to roam, explore, and crow freely. He’d make a wonderful addition to a small farm or lifestyle block!

This gorgeous boy came into our care as a puppy and was adopted out straight away, but through no fault of his own, he’s back with us.

As Zorro has been in a home for most of his life, he’s toilet trained and knows how to behave indoors. Dream dog alert!

He’s a happy, friendly boy who loves people and cuddles. He'll still need ongoing training as he grows and would do best in an active home with daily walks and enough mental stimulation.

Baloo steals your heart the moment he looks at you. He greets every day with hope, curiosity, and a wagging tail despite everything he’s been through.

Baloo only has three legs, but he’s not defined by what he’s missing! He moves through life with confidence, and it’s easy to forget he’s missing anything at all. He wants to explore, sniff, and be part of whatever his people are doing – he just needs to find them.

This boy is sure to bring enthusiasm, sweetness, and joy to your home. Help us give him the Christmas he deserves!

Serenity is a beautiful Flemish Giant rabbit with an even bigger heart. True to her name, she's calm, affectionate, and always happy to be around her people.

A friendly, easy-going bun who loves greeting you with curious sniffs and soft nudges, she's social without being demanding, content to lounge nearby while you go about your day. Her relaxed nature makes her wonderful company. If you're looking for a sweet, gentle companion with a touch of goofiness, Serenity might be your perfect match!