Abandoned dog a waif no longer

Amy Thurston adopted Waif (aka Amy) through the Herald's pet-adoption drive. Photo / Natalie Slade

Amy Thurston knew it was a sign when the terrier-cross puppy that she first fell in love with at the SPCA in November was featured in the Herald's Adopt Me series on New Year's Day.

Now the 11-month-old pup, which was found roaming the streets of Takanini and named Amy by SPCA staff, has a new home with Ms Thurston in Grey Lynn and a new name - Waif.

"When I first saw her in November, it was a dream rather than a reality. But after thinking about it, I decided I could do it and she is settling in so well. I was expecting her to be more work but the SPCA did such a good job with her, she's the greatest."

Ms Thurston says Waif is an "absolute star" who is enjoying exploring her new backyard, going for swims at Pt Chevalier beach and visiting her new friend, a Jack Russell called Cracker.

Eight of the 10 animals so far featured in the Adopt Me Series have found new homes. Bugs the black bunny and Demitre the German shepherd-ridgeback cross are still looking for owners.

SPCA manager Rebecca Laird said the organisation had received an overwhelming response from the series, which has profiled one cat, dog or rabbit every week day since December 27.

"The series has made a big difference. It's really all about raising awareness, which is what the Herald has helped us do," Ms Laird said.

Overall, the SPCA has been inundated with unwanted animals.

However, the good news is that 116 kittens, 72 cats, 20 dogs and five rabbits have all been adopted since Christmas Day.

Ms Laird said this time of year was a popular period for pet adoptions as people arrived back from holiday and wanted to start the new year with a new addition to the family.

She said numbers were starting to build up again as some of the 320 kittens and 80 cats in foster care came back to the shelter to be desexed, vaccinated and microchipped.

A further 100 animals were also coming through the doors everyday.

"Sometimes we can have an animal for three to four weeks before they can be adopted. It may be because they need to put on weight or recover from illness and legally we have to hold them for seven days unless they have been surrendered."

SPCA canine attendant Max Burndred said the dogs featured in the Adopt Me series had been very popular, with German shorthaired pointer Lani and German shepherd-cross Jade proving to be the most sought-after thanks to the attraction of the breeds.

Three-year-old Demitre, who is still looking for a home, has been the subject of a number of adoption applications but none so far have been suitable.

"Demitre's new home will need 1.82m fences," said Ms Burndred. "He likes to jump and he was a stray, so a secure property is a must."