SPCA adoptions fall as cost-of-living crisis hits pet owners

The number of pets adopted from the SPCA has fallen by almost 2400 in the past four years, as the cost-of-living crisis bites for pet owners.

Figures released to Newstalk ZB showed 17,295 animals got a new home in the year to May 2022.

In the year to this May, that number was 14,916, down 521 compared with the previous year.

Auckland’s Māngere shelter recorded the biggest drop, slipping by 239 adoptions over the five-year period, followed by Christchurch (238), Palmerston North (206) and Wellington (169).

Thames had the largest increase, up 240, with the next-biggest climbers being Hamilton (178), Masterton (166) and Kerikeri (141).

Overall, incoming animals fell by 2548 in that time. The SPCA said it hoped that was a reflection of its desexing efforts.

Head of animal care Selena Francisco said the cost-of-living crisis meant pet ownership was out of reach for some people.

“When finances have pressure, things like animals fall outside of the absolute necessities for families, and so, unfortunately, it does have an impact on our adoption rates.”

She said the organisation was also noticing growing interest at free SPCA vaccination events nationwide.

About 200 dogs received a free parvovirus vaccine at an April event in Wellington. It was a record for the charity, with 68 owners and pets queued up waiting for a jab at the event’s peak.

In the same month, the organisation held its first feline drive in Palmerston North, with 64 cats receiving initial vaccinations, while bedding, food and desexing vouchers were handed out.

Francisco said it was increasingly “hearing stories of people who are not only so thankful, but that they were feeling like they were really in a desperate situation”.

“They have perhaps normally always kept on top of all of their vaccines and vet checks, but due to financial strain they can’t at the moment.”

She said fostering an animal could be an opportunity for those unable to afford a pet, with the charity covering everything from bedding to vaccine bills.

Meanwhile, the New Zealand Veterinary Association said money had become a bigger talking point for pet owners.

Head of veterinary services, companion animals, Felicity Jefferies said vets were having more conversations with owners about prioritising treatment.

“With targeted questioning, the veterinarian can help the caregiver explore different options and give a range of different options to be selected from.”

“Once those really important things have been discussed, also discussing payment options as well. That there are different options there to best suit each individual situation.”

December research from pet insurer PD showed one third of New Zealanders delayed essential services such as vaccinations, dental cleaning and desexing because they couldn’t afford it. Almost half cut back spending and about 15% prioritised their pets over other expenses.

Jefferies said vets aren’t reporting a huge increase in people postponing routine checks – but pointed out doing so might be more expensive for owners, as little problems identified early were generally quicker, easier and cheaper to treat, and had better outcomes.

“We do have a responsibility to provide for the wellbeing of our pets. There are costs associated with pet ownership, but there are also many, many benefits.”

Marcus Allan is an Auckland-based Multimedia Journalist at Newstalk ZB, with an interest in social issues, politics, and entertainment. He is currently an intern from the New Zealand Broadcasting School, completing his Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications in Journalism.