133 animals surrendered in one day

Venture behind the scenes at the SPCA's animal village in Mangere and there are animals everywhere - hundreds of them.

The hospital is in full swing de-sexing animals as staff and volunteers clean cages and prepare for more arrivals.

Staff were run off their feet, said SPCA general manager Jane Thompson. "Sometimes we feel like the rat on the treadmill, we just have to run faster and faster to keep up."

Last year the SPCA took in 18,236 animals.

Ms Thompson said owner neglect was one reason for the spike in animal surrenders at this time of year.

"Owners decide they can no longer care for their pets or haven't arranged care for them over the holidays."

In December the SPCA received 1575 cats and kittens, with up to six having to share a large cage.

"Our message about getting your pets desexed does not seem to be getting through, which is frustrating."

One person had surrendered three cats and 14 kittens.

Ms Thompson said last year's milder winter meant the kitten season began earlier, which resulted in more abandoned animals.

"We desex all the cats and kittens that we adopt out but we would like all responsible pet owners to get their animals desexed too," she said.

Cats and kittens make up more than 80 per cent of the animals at this time of year, although they are also the most popular animals to be adopted.

A record number of animals were taken in during December, including 133 on December 31, the highest daily total since records began more than 10 years ago.

SPCA customer services officer Craig Montgomery, said the best time to view animals was on weekends. "Early in the week we are desexing animals and assessing them."

The Herald has been running a campaign to encourage adoptions over the holiday period. Since Boxing Day the SPCA has adopted out almost 400 animals, including 331 cats and kittens, 43 dogs and puppies and 17 rabbits and guinea pigs.

SPCA customer services manager Tracy Dunn said there had been a lot of interest in the animals. Eight of the animals featured in the Adopt Me series have found new homes.

HOMES WANTED

The SPCA has 41 animals available for adoption, including:

31 cats and kittens

4 dogs and puppies

6 rabbits and guinea pigs.

If you want to adopt an animal call the SPCA on (09) 256-7300

The Herald adopt-a-pet feature resumes tomorrow.