SPCA New Zealand

From Rescued to Rehomed: Jasper's story

29 August 2025

Once a stray, Jasper now lives a life of adventure, comfort, and joy with his new whānau.

From Rescued to Rehomed: Jasper's story

One winter's day, eight small puppies were found on a member of the public’s farm in Auckland – certainly not what their finder expected when doing their rounds!

After being brought to our Māngere Centre, Jasper and his littermates were assessed, and Jasper was sent to our Hobsonville Centre. After spending some time growing big and strong, he was adopted by a volunteer!

A brown and white puppy smiles at the camera.
Jasper during his first stay at our Hobsonville Centre.

Unfortunately, after a year, his adopter developed joint and mobility issues. She found she could no longer keep up with Jasper’s exercise needs, and he was re-surrendered to SPCA.

The search was back on for Jasper’s new home. As a large, active dog, he needed space to run, and a family who would prioritise him and his energy levels.

Enter Josie and her partner! They came to SPCA looking for an active dog, and Jasper ticked every one of their boxes. And they almost ticked all of Jasper’s – except for a lack of yard space in their home. Despite this, they were committed to giving Jasper all the exercise he needed.

Canine Attendant Shae assessed their situation carefully, and after getting to know them, she knew that they’d be committed to giving Jasper an active lifestyle. And so, Jasper went on his way!

A year on, Jasper couldn’t be doing better – he’s found his ideal active lifestyle, in spades!

A brown and white dog stands on a grassy lawn on a blue sky day, smiling.
Jasper on one of his many outdoor adventures.

Jasper has become an avid pack walker, making friends in the process. In addition to this, he and his family also go on lots of walks and runs together, averaging about 25 to 30 kilometres a week! His new mum and dad were serious about their commitment to his wellbeing, and haven’t let his exercise needs slip.

“He's made our lives so much brighter,” his mum Josie tells us. “We love him, and he loves us.”

A group of large dogs smile together.
Jasper and some of his new friends.
A brown and white dog sits on a carpet with a black greyhound.
Jasper and his best friend, who he goes on regular pack walks with.

He’s also discovered a love for the ocean. “Jasper loved Ōhope Beach,” says Josie, “[and] loves going in the boat with family and watching his dad wakeboard.”

A brown dog sits on a boat on a sunny day, with a person wakeboarding behind him.
Jasper watching his dad wakeboard, one of his favourite activities.

He also loves his grandparents – who bought him a huge bed, so he can be just as comfortable at their place as he would be at home.

Two elderly people and a brown dog. The man shakes the dog's paw.
Jasper and his grandparents.

“He's even cool, calm and collected during our little home renovations! After a good walk of course,” says Josie. Jasper has fit right into his new life.

A brown and white dog sits next to a level, lounging on the couch.
Jasper during home renovations, cool as ever.

“We want to thank SPCA Hobsonville for helping us find our brilliant boy,” Josie tells us. “We want you all to rest assured that we are giving him the life he deserves, and he is giving us so much more.”

A brown and white dog lies on a couch with a man.
Jasper lounging with his dad.
A woman sits on a deck with a brown and white dog, smiling.
Jasper and his mum.
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