Homes wanted for SPCA animals

By JULIET ROWAN


The Herald profiles another abandoned pet to help the SPCA find good homes for animals who arrive at a rate of 50 a day.

After almost three months, this lively, intelligent german shepherd-blue heeler cross has yet to find a home.

The 18-month-old bitch, which arrived at the SPCA's Animal Village in Mangere on October 7, is just one of many unwanted or abandoned animals waiting to be adopted.

During December, such animals stream into the SPCA at a rate of about 50 a day.

Some find homes easier than others, but animal manager Rachel Green cannot understand why no one has taken the spirited young animal.

"She's a very bright dog, and not a barker," she said.

The dog, a stray, knew no basic commands when she arrived at the SPCA after being picked up on the streets of Manukau. But she now responds to calls to sit and stay, and is happy going for a walk on a lead.

The dog would suit an experienced owner who was willing to continue her training. Because of her size and energy, she would be best cared for by someone with children aged over 8.

All dogs and puppies up for adoption at the SPCA have been vet-checked, vaccinated and de-sexed if necessary.

They also undergo behavioural tests to see, for example, whether they display aggression towards other dogs and respond well to training.

It costs $130 to $150 to adopt a dog and $155 to $175 for a puppy.

Noel, the kitten featured in yesterday's paper, has been placed with a foster family for several weeks until she is old enough to go to her own home.

* To help, call the SPCA on (09) 256-7300.