Walk the Walk and Adopt, Don't Shop
Published on 25 November 2022
Waitaki District Councils Animal Management Team would like to get the message out to the public to consider adopting, not shopping this festive season if a four-legged friend is on the wish list.
Regulatory Services Officer, Sheridan Newson said, “Many people think that a puppy is the best Christmas present for a child, looking back I think I have asked for a puppy for Christmas every year for as long as I can remember, however people need to remember that dogs can be up to 15-year commitment that need a lot of care and attention.”
Sheridan’s rescue dog Spice will be celebrating her second Christmas in her forever home this year. “Instead of waiting for Santa to bring me a puppy for Christmas, I am looking forward to enjoying Christmas together with Spice.”
The Animal Management Team has coordinated around 30 adoptions over the last 2 years, often utilising Council’s Facebook page. Sheridan Newson continued “We really appreciate the public’s comments and shares to help get the word out that a new friend is ready for rehoming.”
Other adoptions have been through our partners such as Pound Paws Rescue, SPCA, and Bull Breed Rescue Christchurch, and many of Council’s team members walk the walk and adopt.
One new owner is Waste Minimisation Officer Lucianne White who adopted Bo after careful consideration earlier this year. “We had been thinking about getting a companion for our first adopted canine whānau member - who is quite anxious - for a while, but taking on one dog, let alone two, is a big commitment so it wasn’t until this little guy came along that we took the plunge.”
Ex Council Team Member Sherie Mailei adopted Tama during her tenure, a very smart pup who loves cuddles, picks up every single sock and still thinks he is a lap dog. “Our 4-year-old Spaniel Coco now runs around with Tama like a puppy and gets to hang out with a mate all day. Previously Coco would not tolerate many other dogs, but now is way cruisier – she is still the boss!” said Sherie.
Council not only assists with adoption but also makes sure the dogs are in good condition prior to rehoming. Sherie continued “The help from the WDC in making sure he is well, fixed, chipped and vaccinated before he came to our family made the transition that much easier, and all we need to worry about was making him feel loved.”
Members of the public are also adopting through the programme, with Buddy as one successfully rehomed pup. “Buddy is super happy, settled right in and getting used to the beach! He is afraid of the ocean, but I reckon he'll come around. He has become best pals with my son and thinks he is a human claiming his place on the outdoor sofa.” Said Buddy’s new owner.
New owners love the additions to their families with Lucianne White noting, “Bo is hilarious… but also a constant -companion of the whole family and keeps us entertained with his joie de vivre and happy-go lucky approach to everything.”
While there are difficult parts to the job, Sheridan loves being part of the rehoming process, “We get to name them all and it is fun… I have 2 dogs myself and love being able to work in an area that is close to my heart.”
If anyone is thinking of adopting a forever-friend, keep an eye on Council’s Facebook page, Pound Paws Rescue, SPCA, and Bull Breed Rescue in Christchurch.
ENDS
