SPCA animals head to loving forever homes with ‘Clear the Shelters’ campaign

After the summer months have passed, our Centres around New Zealand are often nearing max capacity due to an influx of animals over kitten season.

This year, our Centres have felt the squeeze with many dogs, rabbits, and farm animals in their care too.

SPCA launched the campaign to Clear the Shelters, offering 50% off all adoption fees between 5-13 April, to encourage those considering adoption to take the leap in time for the Easter break.

“Before the campaign launched, our Centres were quite overwhelmed with animals ready for adoption,” says Dr. Corey Regnerus-Kell, Veterinarian and General Manager of Animal Services at SPCA.

“We’re thrilled that a massive 1,022 animals found forever homes over this short space of time. Our goal was to get as many animals as possible into loving homes, and New Zealanders really stepped up.”

The adoptions included 803 cats, 105 dogs, 54 small animals, and 60 farm animals.

The walk-in adoption day also saw many potential adopters visiting their local SPCA Centre without the need for an appointment.

“Currently, removing the need for adoption appointments on a permanent basis isn’t something we’re able to manage logistically at all Centres, and we also need to ensure that the wellbeing of the animals is our first priority,” says Dr Regnerus-Kell.

“But this is something we’re working on expanding for additional sites for the future, depending on Centre layout. Being able to organise this for a nationwide one-day event was truly fantastic, and it led to many families and individuals meeting their ideal furry companions.”

Didn’t get the chance to adopt over the campaign period? There are many more animals still waiting.