It’s that time of year again, where pet owners across New Zealand vie for the top spot on SPCA’s 2027 Pets of the Year calendars – but who will number one?

The charity is inviting cat and dog owners across the country to submit their best pet pictures from May 14 to June 29.

This year SPCA is encouraging some friendly competition to see if the top-cat contender, Deli Department, will be bumped from the top of the leaderboard.

Deli has featured on the front of SPCA’s cat calendar for the last four years and the question is – will he make to year number five, or is it someone else’s turn?

Deli’s owner Jessie MacNeil says Deli has a dedicated fan base and can’t believe he’s remained at the top for nearly half a decade.

“Deli’s audience has been dutifully preparing to launch him to victory, along with spreading some joy to other cats who might need a boost. Regardless of who comes out on top, Deli and I are so happy to support Pets of the Year and help SPCA’s sick, vulnerable and injured animals each year.”

Jessie fostered Deli at one week old and returned him to SPCA when it was time for him to find his forever home. But after leaving paw prints on her heart, Deli found himself back with Jessie after two weeks and has remained with her ever since.

Getting involved is easy, says CEO Todd Westwood.

“All you need to do is enteryourpet,capture your photogenic furry friend’s best side – a picture that lets their personalityshine andwill brighten faces and fridges across the country in the SPCA 2027Calendar,” Todd says.

“We want to see your favourite photo that shows off your pet’s personality, whether it be quirky, goofy, grumpy, sassy or royal. Create a profile that tells us what makes them so special. Whetherthey’rea serial sock thief, a puddle-jumping champion, or the king of cat naps, we want to hear it all.”

SPCA wants to hear all the stories about your pet, whether it be funny, heartwarming, or downright adorable - your pet’s story is part of what makes this campaign pawsome.

“By entering Pets of the Year,you’llhelp us fill the pages of our 2027 cat and dogcalendars with feel-good moments, all while supporting animals in need. Your efforts will help provide medical care, shelter, and a second chance for vulnerable animals around the country,” Todd says.

SPCA Pets of the Year Proudly Supported by The Coffee Club, with great prizes thanks to our prize partner Giftiee powered by iGo, The Coffee Club and Purina.

1st–3rd place winners take home $500 / $300 / $200 Giftiee digital Visa Cards, powered by iGo, (Cat and Dog categories).

The Coffee Club are back again helping support the campaign as presenting partner and will provide $30 vouchers to our 4-12 place winners.

Entries for Pets of the Year open today (May 14).

For more information visit Pets of the Year: https://petsoftheyear.spca.nz/

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