If you’re looking to welcome a pup into your life, it’s well worth considering adopting one of many abandoned dogs before you opt to visit a breeder. Albany-based dog and animal shelter Last Lamp Post rescues dogs and puppies in the hopes of helping them find their forever home, making sure these animals have the safe and loving future they deserve.
During the first lockdown they managed to re-home more than 40 unwanted dogs that would otherwise have been euthanised. Pictured above is Ted, who was one such pup, who now has a loving family that adores him.
Founded by Auckland property developer and dog lover Andrew Davies, Last Lamp Post was opened in 2018 after Davies, a longtime SPCA volunteer, had his eyes opened to the magnitude of abuse and neglect dogs are often exposed to.
Having found a property in the upper reaches of the Waitematā Harbour, Davies set to re-building the farm house and renovating the shed to make it a manager’s cottage, with an adjoining kitchen and nursery for puppies. In addition to secure areas for older dogs, there is accommodation and a four garage utility shed for the caretaker, plus a purpose-built clinic with the intention of having a vet on site in the future.
Even more vital since the SPCA started reducing their frontline services throughout the country, Davies works closely with Summer Johnson from the Bay of Island Rescue Centre and Ros Stewart of Bridge Bully Rescue. Over the past three years, Last Lamp Post has been involved in the rescue and re-homing of over 200 dogs and puppies
Unlike many other rescue centres, at Last Lamp Post the dogs spend most of their time out of cages, running free on the secure property, enjoying the ponds and paddocks. “The puppies learn from the older dogs what they can and can’t get away with,” says Davies, “and with a bit of love and attention, we see them developing the confidence they need to be able to integrate successfully with their new families.”
With their motto “adopt, do not shop” Davies and centre manager Louise Burgess ensure the adoption process is thorough and strive to find the right match between their pups’ personalities and the lucky families they go to. Declining homes if they don’t think it’s in the animal’s best interests, they’ll look after a dog for as long as it takes to find the perfect home.
Follow Last Lamp Post on Facebook for updates on new dogs that require homing.
