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Adoption events with reduced fees are proven to increase adoptions, but there are many myths surrounding the removal or reduction of those fees. As an evidence-based organisation, SPCA examines the research to explore these myths.

Male deer (stags) grow and shed antlers each year. ‘Velvet antler’ refers to antlers that are still growing – during this stage, they are covered with a velvet-like covering of soft fine hair. While growing, velvet antler receives a full blood supply and contains nerve endings. In New Zealand, deer velvet is surgically removed from farmed red deer (wapiti) and is sold as a health supplement or traditional medicine and often exported.

This article covers useful information to consider when planning for the future for your pets. These are important things to consider, in case a time comes when you are no longer able to care for them.

​Kitten socialisation is the process of introducing a kitten to a variety of different experiences, environments, people, and other animals in order to help them become a confident and friendly adult cat.

Puppy socialisation is the process of introducing a puppy to a variety of different experiences, environments, people, and other animals in order to help them become confident and friendly adult dogs.

Crayfish, crabs, rock lobster and kōura are sentient animals, meaning they can feel pain and distress, and they are covered by New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act 1999. If these animals are captured, handled, transported and killed for human consumption, it is critical that this is done so humanely.

The topic of cat management in New Zealand can be controversial and emotive. When discussing cat management, it is important to distinguish between feline categories, which hugely impact these discussions, and guide SPCA’s approach.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

​SPCA is concerned about the welfare harms and death of lambs as a result of early lambing that is scheduled to take place during winter or spring, when temperatures may cause thermal stress.

​SPCA opposes octopus farming due to welfare concerns and a lack of evidence that intensive farming systems can provide octopuses with a Good Life where they experience positive welfare and their physical, health and behavioural needs are met.