Pets

At SPCA, we understand that losing a pet can be one of life’s most heartbreaking experiences. Please know that you don't have to carry the pain alone. This guide offers support and practical advice for navigating pet loss grief, including ways to honour your pet's memory and find comfort during this difficult time.

You may have recently rescued a stray cat or dog and are keen to find them a permanent home. However, there are legal considerations under the Animal Welfare Act which must be followed when rehoming certain types of stray animals. There are additional considerations under the Dog Control Act 1996 for a dog you take into your care for 72 hours or more.

Companion cats are loving members of many New Zealand families. Feral cats are independent with no need for human assistance to support them in their daily lives. Somewhere in between are stray cats, which vary in how much they interact with people and rely on them for important things such as food and shelter.

To keep your quail as happy and healthy as they deserve, they need a lot of dedicated care.

Most New Zealanders know about donating blood to help people. Far fewer realise that dogs, cats and other companion species can also donate blood and that these donations can be the difference between life and death for pets undergoing emergency treatment, major surgery or suffering from serious illness.
Around the world, countries have developed very different ways of sourcing this life-saving resource. Some rely on community volunteers, others on veterinary-based donor registers. New Zealand stands out for taking a very different approach.

Pets can be wonderful companions for children, helping them learn empathy, responsibility, and kindness. There are also health benefits such as lower levels of obesity, allergies and anxiety in children raised with pets. But safe, positive relationships don’t just happen: they need guidance, supervision, and an understanding of what animals need to feel safe.

A new baby brings big changes to your home, and your pets may find this unsettling. Starting that relationship right and preparing before the arrival of a baby is an important part of reducing stress for everyone in the household and building the foundation of a long and happy relationship between your child and your pets.

Older animals tend to find the cold weather over winter a bit of a challenge, especially those with arthritis. Arthiritis is inflammation of the joints and can have many underlying causes including prior injury, degenerative disease and developmental disorders.

While many people enjoy the fireworks festivities, some animals can become highly distressed by fireworks.

When the weather begins to turn and the chill sets in, it's important to make sure your pets will be comfortable and well fed during the long cold winter months.