Celebrating One Year of MDC's Dog Adoption Programme
MDC’s Dog Adoption Programme has officially reached its first anniversary, marking a year of second chances, successful adoptions and plenty of wagging tails. The programme continues to highlight the compassionate mahi of our Animal Control Team, giving dogs a second chance at living their best life.
Since launching in July 2025, the programme has helped 17 dogs find loving new homes, residing in the Manawatū and beyond, including one dog who relocated to Canterbury. The programme was a proactive response to dogs entering the care of our Animal Control Officers for a variety of reasons, often through no fault of their own or their household.
Simply by completing the 'Dog Adoption Interest Form' on MDC’s website, when a suitable dog becomes available, the Animal Control Team reviews applications and sparks a conversation with suitable whānau. From an initial phone call to confirm suitability, to meeting the dog and completing a week-long trial, the process helps ensure the whānau and dog are a good match.
The programme has been a hive of heart-warming adoption success stories, as shared on MDC's website. Most recently, in May 2026, Kaizah, a confident and gentle-natured rottweiler was successfully adopted into his fur-ever home with his owner, Emma. The connection between him and Emma was instant, and he has since fitted perfectly into their family dynamic. Their adoption story is a prime example of the importance of the programme, giving a loving dog a second chance and helping whānau find the companion they didn't know they needed.
"Over the last year, seeing the variety of dogs, from puppies to older dogs, find their forever homes and leave our shelter with their tails wagging has been the ultimate reward" Aaron Thornton, MDC's Manager – Animal Control said.
“As a team, we look forward to continuing to support dogs into their forever homes and seeing the heartwarming difference they make to families across the Manawatū District and beyond.”
Learn more about MDC's Dog Adoption Programme and read some of our heartwarming adoption success stories on our website: Dog Adoption Programme | Manawatū District Council