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SPCA education officer Jacqui Howe is opening a drop in centre in Otangarei.

Drop in on the SPCA

Reprinted with permission from the Whangarei Leader
By Deanna Harris

New Zealand's first SPCA drop-in-centre is opening in Whangarei for residents to drop in to gain support and advice about their animals.

Based in Otangarei, the drop-in-centre will be at Te Puawaitanga o Otangarei, on the corner of William Jones Drive and Rata Place. It will be open every second Wednesday from 9am to 4pm.

The brain child of Whangarei SPCA animal field and education officer Jacqui Howe, the pilot programme has received widespread support in Whangarei and nationally. Mrs Howe says the idea is to become more accessible to the community so problems can be addressed before they escalate.

"Otangarei is a community with a lot of pet owners, many are unable to access the information and help they need to care for their pets," says Mrs Howe.
"Being available in the community, Whangarei SPCA can hopefully assist those in need to avoid potential welfare issues."

The programme will not offer any free vet treatment but can advise on how to keep costs down and what options are available.
The centre is also about educating young people by providing information and competitions.

Mrs Howe says the long-term aim is to open the centre on a once a week basis. She says the SPCA is putting more resources into prevention so the number of problems that need action falls in the future.