Whakatāne SPCA is struggling to cope with a surge in puppies this winter, with the shelter housing twice as many puppies as it has kennel space.

The shelter has six kennels for puppies and dogs but is caring for 12 puppies, forcing staff to rely on foster carers to help house the animals.

SPCA Whakatāne manager Warren Timpson said winter had been “very challenging” for the team.

“We have six kennels for puppies and dogs combined. And we have 12 puppies, so it’s very difficult for us to try and house the puppies,” he said.

Timpson said many of the puppies arriving at the centre had been abandoned, often because owners were unprepared for unexpected litters.

“There seems to be an inundation of puppies at the moment, mainly people dumping puppies, unfortunately.”

As the only SPCA serving the Eastern Bay, the Whakatāne team also takes in animals from Ōpōtiki, Kawerau and surrounding areas, adding to the pressure on staff and volunteers.

Despite the growing demand, Timpson said the centre’s foster carers had been vital in helping care for the extra animals.

“Without our fosterers and our volunteers, we would struggle. We would really struggle because we’re a charity. We’re not made of money.”

SPCA Whakatāne is encouraging more people to become foster carers, with all food, vaccinations and desexing costs covered by the organisation.

Timpson said the centre was also working hard to find permanent homes for the puppies through adoption campaigns.

“It’s been hard for our staff because everyone ... comes here because they love animals and they want to see every animal in a forever home.”

He said donations from the community had also made a huge difference. After a recent appeal, the shelter received an overwhelming response for blankets and towels, but donations of animal toys were still needed.

“Animal toys are always really, really helpful.”

Anyone interested in fostering, adopting or donating can visit the SPCA website, contact the Whakatāne centre or follow the SPCA Bay of Plenty Facebook page.