The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is calling for people who can foster neglected, abandoned or abused livestock.
Demand was high for temporary homes for animals such as cattle, deer, sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, horses, llama or alpacas, SPCA’s national foster and volunteer manager Viv Moore said in a statement.
‘‘Even opening your home or property for a few weeks can give an animal the second chance they deserve,’’ Ms Moore said.
Animals came into care through the SPCA’s inspectors.
These animals were cared for by them before, potentially, being put into a foster home.
Animals coming into care needed a network of dedicated foster families across the Southland District, Ms Moore said.
‘‘The programme is heavily community driven, and without foster carers, animals cannot be supported locally.’’
For farm animals, foster homes needed to be on rural properties with appropriate fencing and shelter, and carers needed relevant experience.
Care could involve grazing management, health monitoring and co-ordination with veterinarians or farriers, Ms Moore said.
Foster carers receive support from the charity, which includes food, vet care, medication and supplies for the animal.
The foster process varied by animal and involved completing an online application.
The SPCA would match a suitable animal based on preferences, experience and living environment to applicants over 18 years of age.
Since there is no physical shelter in Gore, the group’s operations are overseen by the Invercargill SPCA centre, in partnership with VetSouth Gore.
To express interest in fostering, visit www.spca.nz/how-you-can-help/volunteer.
