Napier SPCA's longest stay dog finds forever home
An 8-month-old mixed-breed dog, who spent 214 days at the Napier SPCA, has finally found his forever home.
Ghana was adopted on January 3 by retired Rotorua dairy farmers Kevin and Flo Start.
It was a case of right place, right time, as the couple say they had no intention of adopting a dog from the SPCA that day.
After losing both their 16-year-old dog and cat recently they decided they need to take a break from animals.
“To be fair we sort of fell in love with Ghana straight away," Kevin says.
“If nothing else we keep them going for a long age,” Start says, boding well for Ghana’s future.
Kevin Start with his newly adopted dog Ghana. Photo/Supplied.
However, this changed when son Keith who is friends with the ladies at the Napier SPCA suggested they adopt Ghana.
“I’m pretty sure we were stitched up,” Start says
Despite the timing of the opportunity, the decision didn’t take too long as the couple went away and made the decision over a cup of coffee.
His size something that was not a desired trait in previous attempts of adoption proved not a problem for Keith and Flo who have owned larger dogs.
Having previously owned dogs the couple is well acquainted with how to look after animals and explained that Ghana is now able to run around and play in a massive fenced-in section in Rotorua where they currently live.
“It’s all very new to him and we’re still learning about each other.”
Explaining that on the first night, Ghana wasn’t very sure of the television and barked and growled at the moving pictures.
“He’s in and out of everything like an inquisitive child,” Start says.
The couple so far is happy with how Ghana has turned out saying he is super friendly and that he has made their home his.
The SPCA is over the moon with the adoption of Ghana to such lovely people.
SPCA Napier and Hastings Center Manager Joy Walker, says Ghana came into their care through the inspectorate team after a rough start in life.
“But after some TLC from our animal care staff, he bounced back to health and we’re thrilled that he’s found his forever home after a long and patient wait at the Napier Centre."
Ghana experienced a lot in his eight months of life, yet everyone involved in the adoption process is extremely happy that this good boy is now in a place that is worthy of his big heart.
Walker says adopting a dog through their services is a great way to add a new member to the family.
“Members of the public spot pet profiles on our website and apply to adopt or enquire to have a meet and greet to make sure they have a good connection,” Walker says
According to the SPCA website, it is important to consider both yourself and the animal when adopting, “Make sure that you have thought about your new dog’s environment, enrichment, feeding, health and behaviour and what you need to do before your dog comes home”
To adopt an animal, go to the SPCA website or phone the nearest centre.
