Warm and fuzzy: Feel-good fur-baby stories you’ll love

Pictured: George from the SPCA Wellington Centre who has been adopted since this article was published.

Nothing warms the heart like the joy of seeing animals find loving homes. Aotearoa is a land of pet lovers, with 63% of households sharing their home with a pet. But across the country, countless pets are waiting for the right family to give them the love and care they deserve.

Here, we share heartwarming stories of successful adoptions from SPCA and introduce a few furry fellows still longing for their forever homes. If you’re seeking a new companion, these tales will inspire you to consider pet adoption.

Heartwarming tales of pets finding their forever homes

Melanie Margaret 

Melanie Margaret’s new family found her through a heartfelt social media post. “We decided to adopt Melanie because we … wanted to give an adult cat a new home,” they said. “When we saw the Facebook post of Melanie Margaret we thought she was perfect.”

For the first few weeks, Melanie was shy, only venturing out for food. “We could only see her if we spied on her through the window,” her family shared. 

Now, Melanie has fully blossomed, trading her shy demeanour for mornings filled with purrs and breakfast reminders. “She has essentially replaced our alarm clock and will come to let us know it’s time for her breakfast (even when it is not!),” her family said. 

Melanie continues to grow braver every day, thriving on pats and playtime.

Every time it rains, the family feels a deep sense of gratitude. “We’re thankful that Melanie doesn’t have to brave it in the rain anymore,” they shared with love.

Bear 

Bear’s gentle nature stood out to his new owner. “I had been looking at Bear for a few weeks on the SPCA website,” they shared. “He is such a handsome and cute-looking dog!” Once shy, Bear has embraced his new life, enjoying walks along the Hutt River and meeting other dogs. “He also loves padding in the river but is still a bit scared of swimming,” his owner said with a smile.

Bear has made himself right at home, claiming a chair with his Hulk blanket as his favourite spot. “He loves sleeping upstairs with me while I work from home,” his owner shared. Mealtime is another highlight, as Bear eagerly runs outside and sits patiently. “Such a Good Boy!” they said. Loved by everyone he meets, Bear continues to thrive with training, love, and the occasional “big wet sloppy kiss” each morning.

Elsa

Elsa’s forever family found her after seeing her on the SPCA website and learning that she had been waiting nearly a year for a home. “We knew she was the one straight away,” they shared. From the moment they met her, her sass and big personality shone through, and they couldn’t resist bringing her home that same day. “Everyone wants kittens, but we wanted to give a happy life to an older cat,” they said, knowing Elsa was the perfect fit.  

Elsa isn’t afraid to enforce her boundaries and makes her presence known with her tiny frame and big voice. While they originally hoped she’d be an indoor cat, Elsa made it clear she enjoys her daily five-minute wanders before curling up in the sun or on someone’s lap. “She just wants to be around people,” they shared. “We couldn’t be happier with our decision to adopt her.”

Blaze

Blaze’s new family was drawn to his playful nature, big heart, and love for kids. “Let’s fly from Nelson to Kerikeri for the weekend to meet him,” they decided. Determined to build trust, his pet parents spent time with him, taking him for a beach trip where he eagerly splashed in the waves. By the end of the weekend, as the three of them squeezed onto a small couch back at the SPCA, they were already a team.

Now, a year later, Blaze has grown into a loving and loyal companion. “He’s a great dog with a big heart and a smart head,” they shared. He thrives on learning, remembers house rules, and returns quickly when called – often sitting right on their feet. “Walk nicely” has become their gentle cue, making every walk feel like teamwork. While he was once wary of men, time and patience have helped him grow; his initial barks are quieter now, fading faster with each new friendly face. “Family and friends love him, including our grandson,” they said with pride. Grateful for the Kerikeri Centre team who cared for Blaze for 14 months, they know his journey was worth the wait!

Tales of loyalty and love: Pets who changed their owners’ lives 

Nikki’s incredible story of heroism is one for the books. After her owner’s car crashed, the brave German shepherd pulled her unconscious companion out of the wreckage and up the bank to safety. Nikki's legacy lives on through the Kotuku Foundation, which helps train medical assistance dogs. Nikki’s loyalty is a testament to the bond between humans and animals, showing how pets can truly change (and even save) lives.

Inspiring stories of pets overcoming the odds

Not every pet has an easy beginning, but their resilience is nothing short of amazing. Penny, a little cat who had a challenging start to life, has found happiness and comfort with her new owner. "From the first day, we were already best friends," her owner shares. Penny’s story is one of overcoming hardship, filled with love, curiosity, and hope for the future.

Furry friends looking for a forever home

Are you ready to write the next happy ending? Meet some amazing dogs and cats currently up for adoption through SPCA New Zealand: 

Noodle (Wellington Centre): Noodle is a happy, wiggly teenage mixed breed pup bursting with love, energy, and a deep love for belly rubs and playtime. He’s looking for an experienced, adult-only home where he can continue his training, thrive with structure, and be your loyal, cuddly companion for life.

Moonshine (Hokitika Centre): Moonshine is a sweet, affectionate cat who loves cuddles and attention—but only on her terms. She’s looking for an experienced, cat-savvy owner and a home where she can be the only pet, soaking up all the love she’s waited so patiently for.

Pablo (Kerikeri): Pablo is a clever, playful one-year-old dog who’s spent his whole life in the shelter and is eager for a home where he can learn, explore, and be loved. He’s looking for a patient, active family to help him grow in confidence and enjoy all the adventures life has to offer.

Pablo has been adopted since this article was published. Find more adorable pups like Pablo, who are waiting for a loving family to take them home here.

Matthew (Gisborne Centre): This gentle five-year-old cat is a calm, loving companion looking for a peaceful home to enjoy his golden years. With a manageable condition and a heart full of affection, he’s ready to share quiet moments and plenty of love with someone special.

Skeeter (Rotorua Centre): A lively and curious terrier-cross who loves to explore and is always ready for a cuddle. Skeeter needs a home with lots of space, toys, and love. 

Kala (Timaru Centre): Kala is a sensitive soul who would thrive in a calm, adult-only home where she can form a strong bond with her favourite human. Kala feels safest when she can sleep tucked away, but once she feels secure, she will be there for pats, cheek scratches, and quiet companionship. With time and love, Kala will blossom into a loyal and comforting friend.

Kala has been adopted since this article was published. Find more cuties like Kala the cat, who are waiting for a loving family to take them home here.

Adopt a pet, change a life

By choosing to adopt rather than shop, you’re not only giving a pet a second chance but also enriching your life with their unconditional love and devotion. Whether it’s a cheeky kitten, a loyal dog, or a gentle senior pet, their companionship is priceless.

Start your adoption adventure today by visiting the SPCA website, and help create more heartwarming stories just like these.

Once you bring your pet home with you, see whether SPCA Pet Insurance may be worth considering.