General pet care

Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are an intelligent and friendly breed of ornamental fish. Their natural habitat are the cool streams, lakes and ponds throughout Asia. Goldfish have an average lifespan of 10-15 years, with some species living up to 30 years!

While fish are amazing pets, they are also a serious commitment. Fish are living beings with needs, wants, and feelings - just like you and I. They require a lot of time, money, love, and understanding – they are not low maintenance pets. It is your responsibility to keep your fish safe, happy, and healthy.

While ducks can make great companions, they are also a serious commitment. Before you decide to care for ducks, it is important to consider whether you have the time, resources, and knowledge, as well as the right environment to care for your ducks properly.

Domestic rabbits are a popular companion animal in New Zealand. However, many owners do not have their rabbits desexed, which can lead to health problems and overpopulation.

This article covers useful information to consider when planning for the future for your pets. These are important things to consider, in case a time comes when you are no longer able to care for them.

Adoption events with reduced fees are proven to increase adoptions, but there are many myths surrounding the removal or reduction of those fees. As an evidence-based organisation, SPCA examines the research to explore these myths.

Dogs die in hot cars. If you love them, don't leave them.
Every year, our Inspectors receive hundreds of welfare calls about dogs that have been left inside hot cars. Over the last summer, these calls accounted for approximately 11% of all welfare calls made to SPCA. Sadly, the message around the dangers of leaving your animals inside cars doesn’t seem to be sinking in. SPCA has created downloadable resources including posters, a flyer and a social media tile to help you to share the message.

Thinking about going on holiday this summer? Those pleading eyes or anxious circles around the house while you pack your bags are never nice.

New Zealand is a nation of animal lovers, with 64% of Kiwi families sharing their homes with 4.6 million pets.

Older animals tend to find the cold weather over winter a bit of a challenge, especially those with arthritis.