The Adoption Process

At Wellington SPCA we always try to find the best match between our homeless pets and their new owners. We operate a no "time limit" policy for all the animals we have available for adoption - we will care for them until we find the very best home for them. We don't adopt pets as surprise presents. If you want to adopt a pet as a gift for someone, they need to come in with you and choose their new pet themselves. Or, you can buy a voucher to cover the adoption fee so they can come in and find the animal that's right for them.

Our adoption process is individual to each and every applicant so please allow plenty of time when you come in to meet the animals available for adoption. We will ask you lots of questions and can offer lots of advice about helping your new pet settle into your home and family.

We want you to think through the decision to adopt a pet very carefully and be fully aware of the commitment, costs, challenges and legal obligations that come with pet ownership. You need to be able to afford both the day-to-day care of your new pet and also any unexpected vet bills should your pet get sick or injured. You will need to consider what future plans you may have and make sure that you can include your pet in these plans. Many animals are surrendered to Wellington SPCA as their owners move house or start a family and feel they can no longer care for their pet.

Adopting a pet means you are making a lifelong commitment to love and care for it and that it becomes an integral part of your family.

You can check out most of the animals we have available for adoption on our website or by calling in to one of our centres (click here for opening times and locations). If you have any questions about any of the animals available for adoption you can call us to speak with a caregiver.