Dog adoptions on the rise

The number of dogs adopted from the Taupo pound has soared to over 140 in the last year - a 32 per cent increase on the previous year.

One of those adopted was black labrador Knight, who found a new home with Tihoi woman Jo Nickalls last September. Knight was one of 142 dogs rehomed in the 12 months to May 31, compared to 107 dogs the previous year.

"I saw Knight on the Taupo District Council Adopt-a-Dog Facebook page and as soon as I saw him I thought, we have to have that dog. He belongs with us," Jo said. "I was drawn to his big loving eyes. He's just a big softie, and he's fitted in with us really well."

Knight is learning some skills from the Nickalls family's 12-year old labrador, so when the time comes Knight can take over the job of guard dog.

"Life wouldn't be the same without him, and we can't imagine it," Jo said.

Jo and her family live rurally, and she said Knight - who is now 18-months-old - is learning the ropes on the farm.

"He's a very energetic young puppy who likes to help - or hinder - with the stock," she laughed. "He gets very excited, barking at the right or wrong time, but he's still learning."

Knight is one of several success stories of dogs adopted from the pound. They come in all shapes and sizes and we always have new dogs coming through that need forever homes.

Our poundkeeper Amanda Parish said the number of dogs being rehomed was also thanks to hard work from community groups like Community Animal Rescue and Education (CARE), Taupo and Turangi SPCAs and people willing to welcome dogs into their lives.

"We've had phenomenal support from these agencies, and they've taken in many dogs for us and rehomed them," she said. "The community has been amazing with increased awareness of what we are trying to achieve, and we are so thankful to them for giving rescue dogs a second chance."