Other species adoptions

• What you need to know
• How to go about the adoption process
• How much will it cost?
• Have you got everything you need?
• What to do if a problem occurs
• Animals currently available for adoption

What you need to know

Auckland SPCA tries to ensure that all healthy unwanted animals coming into our care are offered for adoption to homes that we consider acceptable and that will be in the best interests of the animal. The Auckland SPCA reserves the right to refuse adoption.

All animals available for adoption have undergone a thorough veterinary check-up and are approved by our veterinarians.

All animals are vaccinated and treated to eliminate fleas and worms. Their temperament and behavioural habits are thoroughly tested to ensure that they will be adopted to homes that will best suit them.

How to go about the adoption process

It is best to call us first on 09 2567300 to check whether we have the kind of animal you are looking for available for adoption. We often have guinea pigs and occasionally birds, rats and mice available for adoption as companion animals. Guinea pigs are not desexed and need to be housed alone or with a same sex companion so they do not breed.

From time to time, chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, horses and even donkeys have come into our care. There are stringent rules regarding adoption of these animals and our staff can advise you on these species, plus your local council can advise whether animals such as these are permitted on your property. An SPCA Inspector will also conduct a property check to ensure suitability for a particular species.

If a particular animal commands your attention, please ask one of our animal attendants for assistance. Our attendants will be pleased to share with you all the information that is available about the animal's background and to give you our assessment of its temperament. They can advise you and help you to select a suitable animal for your situation.

If you find an animal you would like to adopt, please note its Village Number, if available, and cage/pen number and make your way to front reception, where one of our Customer Services staff will assist you to complete the preliminary adoption process. You will be invited to complete an Adoption Application form. Our staff will complete it with you, if necessary.

You wil then be asked to make an adoption contribution and to sign a form to acknowledge your understanding of the full terms and conditions of adoption before you leave with your chosen one.

How much will it cost?

The Auckland SPCA does not sell animals. We do ask for assistance to partially recover our costs. Depending on the species of animal, you will be asked to make a specific contribution. For example, guinea pigs $10 .

The cost of preparing an animal for adoption includes veterinary checks, vaccinations, worming and flea treatment, desexing charges and an apportioned share of attendants' costs, food and other overheads.

If you wish to give a donation to further assist us with these costs, it would be greatly appreciated.

Have you got everything you need?

Before you take your new companion home, our customer service staff will attend to any questions you may have. They will advise you on the rehoming period and general care, including food and any special dietary needs.

You are invited to visit our shop here at the village to purchase essential items such as flea controls, water and food bowls, food and supplements; or even some desirable items such as grooming tools, toys and treats (including balls, chew items, etc.) that will help your chosen friend to settle in their new home.

What to do if a problem occurs

Should your chosen animal be incompatible with your home situation, we require that you return it to us for rehoming.

Where all care has been taken to ensure the absolute health of adopted animals, there is always the possibility of a disease in incubation that will not manifest itself until after adoption. If, within the first two weeks, an illness occurs please contact us for advice and assistance. It is understood that adoptive parents will:

• abide by the animal protection and welfare laws of New Zealand
• provide preventative veterinary care on an ongoing basis
• assume full responsibility for the health and well-being of their adopted animal for the duration of its life

The Auckland SPCA reserves the right to inspect and/or remove an animal if agreed conditions are not met.

We wish you and your chosen companion
animal friend a lifetime of joy.

Other Adoptions

Don't forget Real Groovy Records book section, when you're trying to find that book about animal care. The Auckland SPCA receives a donation for any sales made using these links.

Don't forget to enquire about our SPCA Pet Protection Plan.