With plenty of pets in the SPCA’s care, it has decided to halve the price of adoption fees for seven days next week.
The SPCA Dunedin centre has a large number of cats, kittens, rabbits and dogs needing to be re-homed.
One dog, CJ has been available for adoption at the Dunedin centre for about three months.
The 12-year-old mixed breed Staffy was surrendered to the centre after his previous owner could no longer care for him.
Listed on the SPCA website as a "real gentlemen", CJ is described as well trained and enjoying his daily walks despite his age.
"He is really sweet and affectionate and with a splash of goofiness that we think will make someone very happy," the website description says.
SPCA Dunedin centre manager Ellen Andrews said centres throughout the country had large numbers of animals.
"Financially, a lot of people are struggling, which can impact their abilities to care for animals.
"This and kitten season is why we generally have higher numbers."
Nationally, the SPCA was caring for about 4000 animals and there were 109 at the Dunedin centre.
"The team at the centre are working so hard at the moment."
The Invercargill SPCA centre was full and having to transfer cats and kittens to Dunedin where there was a higher capacity and an on-site vet team.
The Invercargill centre is hosting an adoption open day on February 3.
Ms Andrews explained the high cost of living had strongly affected the number of people able to adopt.
Examples of adoption fees ranged from $60 for rabbits and $125-$250 for cats and dogs.
By temporarily reducing fees from January 27 to February 4, the SPCA hoped to encourage those interested in adopting to take action, but it said people should be mindful of the ongoing costs of owning a pet.
