All articles

​SPCA advocates for continuous improvement in the refinement, reduction, and replacement of animals used in testing.

SPCA supports science education for students in primary and secondary levels, including an appreciation of animals. Our organisation advocates animals should only be used in primary and secondary science education when the animal’s physical, health, and behavioural needs are met before, during, and after a research or technology study.

​SPCA advocates for institutions to participate in multi-institutional commitments to promote transparency in use of animals in research, testing, and teaching.

​SPCA recognises animals to be sentient beings. SPCA supports the inclusion of the word “sentience” in the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and advocates for animal sentience to be considered when minimum standards and regulations are developed.

Guinea pigs can be delightful and lovable pets. The decision to bring one into your home must be made carefully, as the average lifespan of a guinea pig is six to eight years, but they may live as long as 10 years. Your guinea pig will depend on you for food, water, an enriched environment, veterinary care and companionship.

​SPCA opposes the routine killing of male chicks in the layer hen industry.

​SPCA advocates that animal products for sale in New Zealand must be produced to welfare standards that meet or exceed New Zealand law, and should be labelled accordingly.

​SPCA opposes the use of electroimmobilisation.

Rodeos are a form of entertainment in which horses and cattle are used in competitive events. These events include bronc riding, bull or steer riding, steer wrestling, and rope and tie. SPCA advocates for an end to the use of animals in rodeo in New Zealand because these events cause unnecessary distress and can result in significant injuries to the animals involved.

The 3Rs are ethical principles used to advance the welfare of animals used in research, testing, and teaching.