Animals staying longer in SPCA care in Christchurch

The amount of time animals spend in Christchurch SPCA care has jumped by almost a quarter in the space of three months.

And the SPCA is attributing that increase to the flow on effects of the cost of living crisis.

New data showed the average length of stay in Christchurch SPCA shelters and foster care increased by 22.7 per cent from the first to second quarter this year, from 34.81 days to 42.71 days. 

SPCA chief executive Todd Westwood said Christchurch pet owners were continuing to struggle maintaining a pet during the cost-of-living crisis.

Stats NZ reported household living costs increased by 2.2 per cent in February, and unemployment rose to 5.6 per cent in June. Food prices have increased by 4.6 per cent between 2025 and 2026. 

“We are seeing trends that suggest many New Zealanders are feeling financial pressure,” Westwood said. 

Across the country, there was a 12 per cent increase in the average length of stay in SPCA care.

Westwood said there had been a rise in people wanting to foster, rather than adopt.

“We have also received feedback that some people are choosing to foster or volunteer with animals because the rising costs of pet ownership mean they are not currently in a position to have a pet of their own."

For New Zealanders struggling with the cost of owning a pet, the SPCA advised seeking help from the charity.

It offered services, advice, and practical assistance available to support the well-being of pet owners and their animals.