Dog Boston New Plymouth • SPCA New Zealand • SPCA New Zealand (2023)

1. Can you take care of a pet for life?

• The average lifespan for cats and dogs is around 12 years, but some cats and dogs can live 20 years or more!
• If you are considering adopting a pet for your children, keep in mind that children can quickly become bored with caring for the animal. Parents often become the primary caregiver for the pet and must be okay with that. Therefore, adding a new animal to your family should be a family decision and a responsibility of the whole family.
• If you plan to move to another country or travel in the future, this may not be the right time to adopt an animal. However, it is possible to travel with your pet and also organize trips so that your pet is well cared for during your absence. Moving and traveling are situations that can be managed, but this can be expensive and requires careful thought and planning.

2. Do you have money to take care of the pet you want to adopt?

All animals offered for adoption by the SPCA have undergone health examinations and most have been neutered, vaccinated and microchipped (please see each adoption listing for details, as exact details may vary by species); All of this is included in the adoption fee. However, there are also ongoing costs associated with pet ownership that you should be aware of.

These may include:

(Video) Ace the dog is looking for a loving new home - can you help? | AM

• Quality food and treats
• Worm and flea treatments
• Items such as leashes, toys, collars, shelter, bedding, kennels, cages, pens
• Annual health check and vaccinations.
• Veterinary visits and treatments due to illness or accident, as well as preventive controls
• Fees for feeding or caring for your pet when you need to travel
• Dog daycare fees if you need to be away from your dog for an extended period of time
• Training courses for puppies and dogs
• Annual dog registration fees (required by law)
• care costs
• The cost of things that your pet can damage or wear out, such as shoes, TV remote controls, books, sofas, carpets, etc.

To give you an idea of ​​the costs of having a pet,new zealand petsPublished data shows that pet owners spend on average the following amounts per year:

• $670 for your cat
• $1200 per dog (larger dogs may be more expensive)
• $785 on your horse
• $310 for your bunny

However, depending on an animal's individual needs, these costs can be significantly higher.

3. Do you know how to take care of the pet you want to adopt?

• It is your responsibility to know how to properly care for your animals; The 1999 Animal Welfare Act states that "an animal owner and anyone who cares for the animal must ensure that the animal's physical, health and behavioral needs are met in accordance with good practice and scientific knowledge."
• We offer advice on pet care and help with any questions you may have. Your vet is another reliable and helpful source of pet care information.
• Before you decide to adopt an animal, do your research to make a good informed decision about whether you can care for an animal and which animal is best for your situation.
• It is important that you are able to allocate adequate time for feeding, exercising, caring for, and interacting/playing with your pet throughout its life.

4. Is your home suitable for the animal you are considering adopting?

• The size of your home and yard, as well as the location of your home, are important factors in determining how well-suited your home is for a given animal. For example, dogs need a safe, fenced-in area, shelter, shade, and plenty of outdoor space to exercise, explore, and play. If you are considering adopting a cat and letting it out of the house, you should consider that cats can get hurt on the roads or affect local wildlife. Rabbits and guinea pigs need a fenced area, indoors or out, where they can exercise, explore, and play.
• Some landlords do not allow their tenants to have animals. This means that having a service animal can affect how easy it is to find a property to rent and is something to consider when renting.
• If you already have pets, it is very important that you consider them and how they will adapt to a newcomer when you think about adding another animal to your family.

5. Does a pet fit your lifestyle?

• Long work hours, a busy social life, and regular travel all play a role in whether your lifestyle is suitable for sharing with a pet, as well as what type of animal is best suited for you. It is important to consider these factors before deciding to adopt.
• All pets need human companionship and not spending enough time with them can make them unhappy and seriously affect their quality of life.
• You should not adopt a pet unless it is:
  • home often enough to keep the animal company (or have someone home to keep the animal company)
  • willing to walk your dog every day (if you are considering adopting a dog)
  • able to give your pet the basic training it needs
  • you can arrange proper care for your pet while you are away

We look forward to sharing our inspiring stories with you, updating you on how we are helping New Zealand's animals, and letting you know when there are opportunities to give your support.

But you don't have to wait for our next email. Here are some ways to get involved now.

Check this space for your next update! And thanks again for your support, it keeps us going.

thank you so much
The New Zealand SPCA team