Orphaned pets: Misty the dog

Rob and Sue say Misty is better with other dogs since being adopted.

Misty the dog was 2 years old when she was picked up by the SPCA.

For some reason, Misty, like countless other dogs, had not been wanted by her previous owner.

She was well trained, but it was suspected she had been kept tied up for long periods of time.

For Rob, who did not want to give his surname, Misty was the third dog he had taken on. He'd previously adopted from the SPCA, but the dog had passed away, and he felt it was time to adopt another.

His previous dog also had a tough upbringing but was given a second chance by Rob and had become loving and loyal. Misty too has improved since finding a new home.

"She did not socialise well with other dogs, she did not know what to do," Rob said. "But that's changed, especially since I had my daughter's dog with her ... she's really improved.

"She will bark if another dog is coming near the yard, but she's also very passive and would never hurt anyone."

Rob would "absolutely recommend adoption".

"You are giving a better life and a second chance."

How to adopt

• Visit the SPCA village at 50 Westney Rd, Mangere.

• Staff will assess your suitability.

• Cats cost $160 for a kitten, $105 for a middle-aged cat and $55 for a senior. Dogs are $275 for a puppy, $255 for a middle-aged dog, $105 for a senior. Other animals vary.

For more information: spca.org.nz