Auckland Council is launching a new, region-wide adoptable dog website designed to help Aucklanders find their perfect canine match.
“Think swiping; (emotionally not literally), scrolling and falling a little bit in love with dogs that have been rescued and are currently looking for forever homes across the region,” Council said in a statement.
To be launched on Valentine’s Day, February 14, website users can:
- browse dogs up for adoption;
- filter by size, age and lifestyle needs;
- find a match that suits their home, whānau and way of life.
Each dog profile links directly to the shelter where they’re currently staying, making the journey from “just looking” to “meet-cute” simple and transparent.
Councillor Josephine Bartley said that behind every profile is a dog waiting for a fresh start.
“By bringing all our shelters together in one place online, “Puppy Love” gives these dogs the best chance to be seen, meet their people, and begin a lifelong bond built on trust, care and a lot of tail wagging. And let’s be honest, dogs are better at relationships than most of us.”
On Valentine’s Day, Aucklanders are invited to ditch the awkward dinners and come meet their potential new best friend in real life at a special event at the Band Rotunda on Domain Drive in the Auckland Domain between 11am and 1pm.
If sparks fly, adopters can organise follow-up visits and take the next step toward a long, committed relationship.
All Council shelters across the region are now using the “Puppy Love” online “dating” site, giving dogs better visibility and helping them connect with the right people faster.
The site is also fully accessible for people who don’t use social media, helping Auckland Council reach a wider audience and giving more dogs a fair shot at love.
“Dating apps can be tough, but dogs make it easy; they’re honest, loyal and very clear when they like you,” Auckland Council’s Pukekohe Adoption Centre Manager, Carly Triska.
“Dogs don’t ghost, don’t care if you forget to text back and they’re always happy to see you; they’re just here for unconditional love.
“Puppy Love” takes the guesswork out of adoption and makes it easier for people to find a dog that truly fits their lifestyle, and Valentine’s Day felt like the perfect time to celebrate all kinds of love, especially the K9, loyal kind that lasts for years.”
