Media Release: Are cats getting more cuddles than dogs?

New analysis from Companion Animals NZ (CANZ) suggests Kiwi cat owners may be giving their cats more physical affection than dog owners give their dogs.

With 63% of New Zealand households sharing their home with a companion animal, National Pet Day on 11 April is a day to recognise the profound and undeniable impact pets have on the wellbeing of nearly two-thirds of Kiwi homes.  Given how central pets are in our lives, how we express that care — and what we prioritise — matters.

New analysis of data from CANZ’s nationally representative pet ownership survey, shows that 42% of cat owners said physical affection from them is one of the most important things for giving their cat a good life. By comparison, only 27% of dog guardians selected physical affection as a top three contributor to a good life, creating a 15% “cuddle gap” between cats and dogs. 

But what sits behind this “cuddle gap” is more complex than it first appears. CANZ CEO, Pete Monk, explains that guardians understandably interpret caring for their animals differently.  

“It’s important to be clear — this doesn’t necessarily mean dogs are getting less love.”

— Pete Monk, CEO of CANZ

“It’s important to be clear — this doesn’t necessarily mean dogs are getting less love,” says Pete. “Nearly two-thirds of dog owners said love and companionship are key to a good life. The so-called ‘cuddle gap’ highlights those who specifically prioritise physical affection — things like cuddles, pats, or close contact. 

 “It’s an intriguing question to ponder on National Pet Day: do we cuddle our cats more than our dogs? Beyond the playful curiosity, it prompts us to reflect on the many ways we show love and care for our pets. Owners may express care differently depending on whether they have a cat or a dog — through lap time, play, walks, or interactive enrichment — but a cat getting more hugs doesn’t necessarily mean a better overall welfare outcome. A truly good life comes from combining affection with consistent care and understanding each animal’s needs.” 

 So, why might cats get more cuddles than dogs? CANZ speculates that it’s partly about how owners interpret and express affection differently for cats versus dogs - cats may invite lap time and short bursts of physical contact more frequently, while dogs often show their bond through play, walks, and interactive enrichment. Broader research on human–pet interactions in this area would be worth exploring.

 Love alone isn’t enough 

The findings also highlight a gap between how people feel about their pets - and how that translates into day-to-day care. While many people deeply love their animals, that doesn’t always translate into meeting all of their needs — such as regular grooming, exercise, companionship, or socialisation. Practical steps like microchipping, registration, and annual veterinary check-ups can also be overlooked. 

 “Our survey analysis shows that while affection is often a priority, practical care isn’t always seen as essential,” says Pete. “That might be due to lack of awareness, cost, or busy lifestyles. As with all survey findings, these results show patterns in attitudes and behaviour, but don’t necessarily explain what drives them. For example, some actions often occur together - like vet visits and pet insurance - but the direction of that relationship isn’t always clear and we can’t presume ‘causality’ of one to the other.” 

This National Pet Day, Companion Animals NZ is  reminding Kiwi pet owners that “Life’s better with them” – but giving animals a good life in return takes more than love alone. By understanding their needs, keeping them safe and healthy, providing enrichment and social connection, and making everyday choices that help them thrive — not just survive.  

 This National Pet Day, pet owners are encouraged to: 

1. Give them a good life – Combine love with safety, enrichment, social connection, and proactive healthcare. 

2. Keep them identifiable – Ensure your pet is microchipped and registered on NZ Companion Animal Register so they can be returned home if lost. 

3. Plan for their lifetime care – Meet their needs for nutrition, exercise, health, behaviour – and have a plan in place for emergencies or if something happens to you. 

4. Speak up for their welfare – Stay informed on issues affecting pets and help ensure their needs are considered. 

ENDS

ABOUT CANZ   
Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use education, advocacy and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.5 million total registrations. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, New Zealand. Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).    

ABOUT THE REPORT
The full Report 2 analysis will be released soon – for preliminary insights published on our website, see our results article here. This report examines a range of outcome variables including likelihood of ownership, insurance uptake, and veterinary visit frequency, across a dataset of 2,097 respondents. Three guardian demographics (education, gender, and household composition) and three animal characteristics (breed type, acquisition cost, and whether the guardian owned multiple species) served as key predictors throughout. Most models used binary logistic regression to identify associations between these predictors and each outcome variable. It should be noted that logistic regression does not establish causal direction - associations may operate either way, and unmeasured correlated factors are likely present. 

To explore the findings from our original report, visit: 2024 NZ Pet Data Report — Companion Animals New Zealand 

More insights from our NZ Pet Data Report

What new analysis tells us about how pets are viewed and cared for in New Zealand.

With 63% of New Zealand households sharing their lives with a companion animal, the bond between people and pets is both widespread and deeply valued. An upcoming report from Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) on an expanded dataset from our Pet Data survey shows that while love is universal, what people believe a good life looks like varies.

The survey explored companion animal wellbeing through a range of owner-reported priorities, including practical care (e.g., veterinary check-ups, grooming, and safety), environmental provision (e.g., space, enrichment, and shelter), and relational factors (e.g., affection, companionship, and social needs). 

While our original NZ Pet Data Report focused on what New Zealanders are doing, this additional analysis helps answer the next question: Who is doing it - and why are they doing it?  

By exploring relationships between demographics, behaviours, and attitudes, we can better understand how to support guardians to give their animals a truly good life, while recognising that the associations we found were not necessarily causal and may reflect bidirectional or underlying influences. 

The below outlines some of the key findings, and more insights like these will be shared in Report 2, coming in full very soon. 

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ANIMAL ACQUISITION - OPPORTUNITY, NOT ALWAYS INTENTION

The data shows that pet ownership in New Zealand is diverse - and so are the decisions people make. From how animals are acquired, to what people believe matters most for an animal to have a good life, patterns shift depending on variables like household structure, gender of the guardian and type of animal. 
 
One of the patterns in the dataset shows how animals enter homes; it suggests that additional pets are more likely to be acquired for free: 

• Cats: 51% of first cats were free → rising to 71% by the third cat  

• Dogs: 23% of first dogs were free → rising to 41% by the third dog  

This suggests that first pets are often planned decisions, whereas additional pets are more likely to be opportunistic or circumstantial. 

Additionally, household type influences how pets are acquired: 

• Households without children were more likely to acquire pets for free  

• Households with children were more likely to purchase

This may reflect how animals are integrated into different family structures, with households without children potentially having more time and flexibility to take on animals that require more time and effort.  

Mixed breed animals were far more likely to be acquired for free, while pure breed and registered pedigree animals were more often purchased – suggesting two distinct pathways to pet ownership: intentional acquisition and more incidental routes. 

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THE “CUDDLE GAP” BETWEEN CATS AND DOGS 

While owner ‘love and companionship’ was the most commonly selected contributor to what people viewed to be a good life across pet types, how people express care differs.

When asked to pick their top 3, the survey found that 42% of cat owners consider physical affection - like cuddles and pats – one of the top contributors to a good life for their cats, compared with 27% of dog owners selecting this, creating a 15% “cuddle gap”. 

Key insights: 

• 42% of cat owners identified physical affection as a key contributor; this pattern was consistent across all demographics, showing the bond is widely shared. Whereas 27% of dog owners selected physical affection as one of the top priorities. 

• Dogs are not loved less - nearly two-thirds of dog owners still rate love and companionship as essential to a good life. The “cuddle gap” reflects differences in physical affection specifically, not overall care or bonding. 

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LOVE DOESN’T ALWAYS TRANSLATE INTO PROTECTION WITH INSURANCE 

Pet insurance remains relatively uncommon - held by 27% of dog owners, 12% of cat owners, 9% of horse owners and just 3% of rabbit owners. While many owners prioritised love and companionship, these emotional factors were not linked to insurance uptake. Instead, positive attitudes towards providing enrichment were stronger indicators.  

This highlights an important gap: People care deeply about their animals - but that care doesn’t always translate into forward-looking, protective actions. 

Key insights: 

• No link between insurance and affection or companionship  

• Strong link between insurance and valuing enrichment  

• Insured owners were more likely to demonstrate a broader “care package” of behaviours (e.g., annual veterinary check-ups and vaccination visits). 

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INSURANCE MAY REFLECT A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO CARE 

Analysis showed that insurance was more closely linked to what people do rather than what they believe. Owners who regularly engaged in preventative care, such as annual vet visits and vaccinations, were more likely to insure their pets, although this association was not necessarily causal and may be bidirectional.  

The belief that annual vet visits are important for a good life, was only associated with insurance status among cat owners, suggesting that attitudes do not always translate into behaviour.  

This suggests insurance isn’t just a financial decision. It reflects a broader mindset of proactive planning and active investment in an animal’s wellbeing. While surveys cannot truly tell us which action causes which (controlled studies are required for this), some key insights regarding insurance and vet visits nonetheless include: 

• Owners who attend annual vet checks are more likely to have insurance  

• Those who don’t visit the vet are also less likely to insure  

• For dog owners in particular, behaviour (visiting the vet) appears more strongly associated with insurance than attitudes. 

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MANY NON-PET OWNERS STILL WANT A PET - BUT FACE BARRIERS 

While not everyone currently has a companion animal, interest in pet ownership remains strong. In fact, our new analysis showed that out of the respondents who did not currently have a pet, 58% would like a pet in the future, and a third have previously had a pet.  

• Dogs were the most desired species by this cohort (69%) 

• Cats came in second at 55% 

• Past pet type predicted what type of pet people wanted next 

• Nearly 90% of past cat owners intended to have another cat 

• People who had previously owned both a cat and a dog also preferred a future cat (57%) 

The barriers these people encountered were:  

• Lifestyle not suitable for pet ownership (47%) 

• Cost (39%) 

• Responsibility (28%) 

• Landlord restrictions (27%) 

 For those who did not want a future pet, the most cited reasons for not wanting one were time (49%), cost (47%), and responsibility (35%). Our survey also found that some of these responses centered on the loss of an animal and the grief that followed, serving as a reminder that the depth of the human-animal bond can make loss feel too significant to risk losing again.  

Pet ownership (past and future) was also affected by factors like gender and household situation; women were more likely than men to have owned pets in the past and to want them in the future, while people whose children had left home were less likely to plan for future pet ownership. These patterns suggest that life stage may play a significant role in decisions about pets. 

Key points: 

• Men are less likely to have owned pets or want one in the future  

• People with older children no longer at home are less likely to want a pet  

• Interest in pet ownership may be higher in households with children. 

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WHERE PEOPLE BUY PET FOOD DIFFERS BY SPECIES — AND CONVENIENCE MATTERS 

Where people choose to buy pet food — and what they feed — varies notably by species and lifestyle. Supermarkets are the dominant purchasing location for cat owners, with 79% buying food this way, while dog owners are more split, with 48% relying on supermarkets and others turning to a wider range of sources.  

In contrast, rabbit owners are more likely to purchase from pet stores (49%), reflecting the more specialised nature of their dietary needs. Feeding choices also differ, with raw diets more commonly adopted by dog owners (30%) than cat owners (22%).  

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This expanded dataset analysis confirms that love for companion animals is universal – but love alone doesn’t always translate into the behaviours, practical care and mindsets that support long-term wellbeing. Understanding where those gaps exist is essential to help guardians in Aotearoa New Zealand give their animals a truly ‘good life’.  

The full ‘Report 2’can now be viewed here: Report 2 Extended Analysis

To explore the findings from our original report, visit: 2024 NZ Pet Data Report — Companion Animals New Zealand 

This report examines a range of outcome variables including likelihood of ownership, insurance uptake, and veterinary visit frequency, across a dataset of 2,097 respondents. Three guardian demographics (education, gender, and household composition) and three animal characteristics (breed type, acquisition cost, and whether the guardian owned multiple species) served as key predictors throughout. Most models used binary logistic regression to identify associations between these predictors and each outcome variable. It should be noted that logistic regression does not establish causal direction - associations may operate either way, and unmeasured correlated factors are likely present. 

10 Everyday Ways Pets Make Life Better

Ahead of National Pet day on 11 April, we’re discussing 10 ways our companion animals make our lives better - 💫Backed by Science 💫

1. They Lower Our Stress

Studies show interacting with pets can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin – the same “bonding” hormone released between parents and children¹.,² Even a few minutes of patting a dog or cat can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, shifting us out of ‘fight or flight’ and into a calmer, more regulated state³˒⁴. For many people, their pet is one of the most consistent sources of this kind of grounding in their daily lives.  

At the same time, responsible ownership is no small thing. Research reminds us that caring for a pet comes with responsibility - financial, emotional, and practical - which can add stress if support systems aren’t in place⁵˒⁶. Like any meaningful relationship, the human-pet bond is most nourishing when it is sustainable.  

2. They Get Us Moving

Dog guardians tend to walk more and meet physical activity guidelines more often than non-dog owners. That daily walk adds up - for both heart health and mental clarity. Dog owners who walk their pets are over 2.5 times more likely to meet a recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to enhance their health compared to non-dog owners⁷.  And dog walking also calms your brain, activating relaxing brain pathways and reducing stress-related nerve activity⁸. In other words, walking with your dog may have a more relaxing effect on the brain than walking alone. 

3. They Reduce Loneliness 

Companion animals provide routine, presence, and non-judgmental companionship - particularly powerful for older adults and people living alone. Among adults aged 60+, pet owners were 36% less likely to report loneliness compared to non-pet owners⁹, and animal-assisted therapy in long-term care settings has also been shown to reduce loneliness¹⁰. The effect is driven by both the comfort of animal presence and the structure that caregiving creates.  

4. They Strengthen Community Connections

Dogs are particularly powerful social catalysts. A 2004 study found that people were far more likely to acknowledge or interact with someone walking a dog than with someone walking alone or carrying a plant¹¹. Another study showed that pet owners are significantly more likely than non-pet owners to get to know people in their neighbourhood.

Dog owners in particular view people they meet through their dog as friends. Around 40% of pet owners reported receiving one or more types of social support (i.e., emotional, informational, appraisal, instrumental) from people they met through their pet. This suggests that pets can play an important role in building healthier neighbourhoods¹² and stronger community connections.  

5. They Help Shape Who Children become

Growing up with animals may support stronger emotional understanding and nurturing behaviours. A systematic review of 22 studies published in 2017 found evidence linking pet ownership to a wide range of emotional benefits in childhood - particularly improvements in self-esteem and reduced loneliness - as well as increased social competence, social interaction, and perspective-taking abilities¹³.

Taking responsibility for a pet also gives children an early opportunity to practise the role of caregiver, fostering compassion through daily acts of feeding, play, and gentle handling. This is precisely why teaching children to approach animals with patience and respect matters: it doesn't just protect the animal - it actively shapes how children learn to relate to the world around them.  

6. They Provide Routine and Purpose

Feeding, walking, and care create structure - something especially protective during stressful life periods. Pets enforce routine in a way no alarm clock can: their needs are immediate and emotionally compelling, giving owners a daily sense of being needed. Research backs this up – in one study, dogs were described as creating a form of “co-discipline” around walking: owners said that their dogs would anticipate walk times often and become excited, making it harder to skip¹⁴. The daily walks were described as relaxing and stress-relieving, one person noting they had to do it “every day for my sanity”. Pets don’t just fill time – they give it purpose. 

7. They Support Mental Health

Pets can support our mental wellbeing in ways that go beyond just companionship. A UK study found that young adults felt real relief from anxiety and depression through everyday moments with their cats and dogs- playing, going for walks, or simply sitting and patting them. 

Many people said their pets seemed to pick up on how they were feeling. Things like staying close or making eye contact helped create a sense of calm and safety. During tougher times, pets also gave them a lift - helping them feel more motivated and a bit more positive about the day ahead.¹⁵  

8. They Help Us Navigate Grief 

Pets often provide quiet stability during times of loss, offering routine and comfort, and a non-judgmental presence when words feel hard. A 2021 study asked people who had experienced devastating losses to rate all of the support in their lives: family, friends, therapists, faith leaders, and more.

Animals ranked highest of all¹⁶. Participants didn't need their pets to say the right thing - they needed someone to simply show up, without agenda, without growing tired of their grief. As one participant put it: “My dog was the person who was with me all the time. I think just having that soul there who can’t say anything so it’s like you know they’re not saying the right or wrong thing, they’re just there." That quality of presence, uncomplicated and completely consistent, is something even the most well-meaning humans often struggle to sustain. For many people, it becomes an anchor when everything else feels uncertain. 

9. They Spark Conversations 

Pets are natural social connectors. A study from 2000 found that the frequency of social interactions increased when a person was accompanied by a dog, especially interactions with strangers, and more importantly, regardless of the handler's appearance or where they were¹⁷. The researchers concluded that walking with a dog can promote social interaction and change human-to-human dynamics, helping start conversations with people who would otherwise remain strangers. A shared moment over a wagging tail or a curious kitten can turn strangers into acquaintances - and sometimes into friends. 

10. They Anchor Us in the Present 

Animals are by nature creatures of the immediate – they live in the now! Watching a dog investigate a scent trail or a cat stretch into a patch of sunlight gently draws us into the present moment. This matters because the human mind tends to do the opposite – it drifts…  

Research suggests using mindfulness to engage with your dog increases well-being: when dog owners were guided to interact mindfully with their dogs - noticing sensations, observing and staying present with their dogs - their psychological well-being variables improved measurably¹⁸. The dogs responded too, initiating more contact with their owners in return.

Pets give us these small, present-moment connections every day. Whether we pause and notice them is up to us.  Because life’s better with them!

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References: 

1 Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psychosocial and psychophysiological effects of human–animal interactions: The possible role of oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3, 234. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00234 

2 Odendaal, J. S. J., & Meintjes, R. A. (2003). Neurophysiological correlates of affiliative behaviour between humans and dogs. The Veterinary Journal, 165(3), 296–301. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1090-0233(02)00237-X 

3 Handlin, L., Hydbring-Sandberg, E., Nilsson, A., Ejdebäck, M., Jansson, A., & Uvnäs-Moberg, K. (2011). Short-Term Interaction between Dogs and Their Owners: Effects on Oxytocin, Cortisol, Insulin and Heart Rate—An Exploratory Study. Anthrozoös, 24(3), 301–315. https://doi.org/10.2752/175303711X13045914865385 

4 Pendry, P., & Vandagriff, J. L. (2019). Animal Visitation Program (AVP) Reduces Cortisol Levels of University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial. AERA Open, 5(2). 

5 Merkouri A, Graham TM, O’Haire ME, Purewal R and Westgarth C (2022) Dogs and the Good Life: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Association Between the Dog–Owner Relationship and Owner Mental Wellbeing. Front. Psychol. 13:903647. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.903647 

6 Westgarth, C., Christley, R. M., Marvin, G., & Perkins, E. (2019). The Responsible Dog Owner: The Construction of Responsibility. Anthrozoös, 32(5), 631–646. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2019.1645506 

7 Soares, J., Epping, J. N., Owens, C. J., Brown, D. R., Lankford, T. J., Simoes, E. J., & Caspersen, C. J. (2015). Odds of getting adequate physical activity by dog walking. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 12(Suppl 1), S102–S109. https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2013-0229 

8 Akiyama, J.; Ohta, M. (2021): Hormonal and Neurological Aspects of Dog Walking for Dog Owners and Pet Dogs. Animals, 11, 2732. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11092732 

9 Stanley IH, Conwell Y, Bowen C, Van Orden KA (2014). Pet ownership may attenuate loneliness among older adult primary care patients who live alone. Aging Ment Health.;18(3):394-9. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2013.837147. Epub 2013 Sep 18. PMID: 24047314; PMCID: PMC3944143. 

10 Marian R. Banks, William A. Banks (2002): The Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Loneliness in an Elderly Population in Long-Term Care Facilities, The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, Volume 57, Issue 7, Pages M428–M432, https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/57.7.M428 

11 Wells, D. L. (2004). The facilitation of social interactions by domestic dogs. Anthrozoös, 17(4), 340–352. https://doi.org/10.2752/089279304785643203 

12 Wood L, Martin K, Christian H, Nathan A, Lauritsen C, Houghton S, Kawachi I, McCune S. (2015): The pet factor--companion animals as a conduit for getting to know people, friendship formation and social support. PLoS One. 10(4):e0122085. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122085. PMID: 25924013; PMCID: PMC4414420. 

13 Purewal R, Christley R, Kordas K, Joinson C, Meints K, Gee N, Westgarth C. (2017) Companion Animals and Child/Adolescent Development: A Systematic Review of the Evidence. Int J Environ Res Public Health. Feb 27;14(3):234. doi: 10.3390/ijerph14030234. PMID: 28264460; PMCID: PMC5369070. 

14 Westgarth, C., Christley, R. M., Marvin, G., & Perkins, E. (2017). I walk my dog because it makes me happy: A qualitative study to understand why dogs motivate walking and improved health. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(8), 936. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14080936 

15 Hawkins RD, Kuo C-H and Robinson C (2024): Young adults’ views on the mechanisms underpinning the impact of pets on symptoms of anxiety and depression. Front. Psychiatry 15:1355317. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1355317 

16 Cacciatore J, Thieleman K, Fretts R, Jackson LB (2021): What is good grief support? Exploring the actors and actions in social support after traumatic grief. PLoS ONE 16(5): e0252324. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252324 

17 McNicholas, J. and Collis, G.M. (2000): Dogs as catalysts for social interactions: Robustness of the effect. British Journal of Psychology, 91: 61-70. https://doi.org/10.1348/000712600161673 

18 Amiot C E, Quervel-Chaumette M, Gagné C B, Brock (2025): An experimental study focusing on mindfulness to capture how our contacts with dogs can promote human well-being. Sci Rep 15, 23202. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-00872-z 

Why New Zealand’s Dog Control Act is being reviewed

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) welcomes the Government’s announcement that a review of the Dog Control Act 1996 is underway - an important and long-overdue step for both animal welfare and community safety. 

This review follows growing concern about dog-related incidents across the country, alongside increasing recognition that the current legislation is no longer fit for purpose. 

Why the current Act is considered out of date 

The Dog Control Act has been in place for nearly 30 years. Over that time, our understanding of dog behaviour, animal welfare science, and effective prevention has evolved significantly. However, the legislation has not kept pace. Councils and sector organisations have consistently raised concerns that the current framework is ineffective and does not fully reflect modern, evidence-based approaches to prevention and behaviour. As a result, the system can struggle to respond early, prevent incidents, and support both dogs and communities in the best way possible. 

What the review will consider 

The Dog Control Act 1996, in its current form, sets out how dogs can be classified as dangerous or menacing, seized and impounded, and establishes infringement offences and fees. Local councils and territorial authorities are responsible for enforcement. A dog can be classified as dangerous if there is reason to believe it poses a threat to the safety of any person, stock, poultry, domestic animal, or protected wildlife, or if the owner has been convicted of an offence due to the dog rushing at a person, animal, or vehicle.  

Once classified as dangerous, owners have one month to act on keeping the dog in a fenced area of the owner's property (separate and fenced from the property entry) and must be muzzled and on a leash in public. Dangerous dogs must also be neutered, and owners pay a higher annual registration fee.  

A menacing classification is slightly less severe but still imposes strict restrictions, and can be applied either on behavioural grounds or on the basis of breed. Since 2003, the import of certain breeds (e.g. American Pit Bull Terrier types) has been banned, and councils must classify dogs of those breeds as menacing.  

The owner of a dog that causes serious injury commits an offence and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding $20,000, or both, and the court must order the destruction of the dog unless satisfied that the circumstances of the attack were exceptional. For less serious attacks, the owner can be fined up to $3,000 and made liable for any damage caused. However, local government lacks consistency in how it responds to incidents, and greater consistency would require national guidelines from central government. 

The Government has indicated several key areas of focus for the review, including: 

• Barriers within the Act that create resource pressure on councils 

• Penalties and consequences for non-compliance 

• Desexing obligations as a preventative measure 

• Stronger powers and clearer guidance for council officers 

Alongside this, enforcement guidelines will be updated to ensure greater consistency across the country, and councils are being encouraged to fully use existing powers in the meantime. Multiple organisations, including the SPCA, are also calling for stronger regulation of irresponsible breeding practices, as well as nationally consistent, evidence-based guidelines for councils on how to respond following a dog bite incident. Currently, there are no enforceable regulations to address irresponsible dog breeding, and the Code of Welfare for dogs has not been reviewed since it was first introduced in 2010.  

While specific details have not yet been provided on timing and engagement process, this is a great first step bringing this issue to the forefront and we’d like to continue to keep the conversation alive.  

Why reform matters - for people and for dogs 

At Companion Animals NZ, we believe this review is an opportunity to take a more preventative, evidence-based approach to dog control. Dog-related incidents are complex. Behaviour is influenced by a combination of factors, including: 

• Early socialisation 

• Training and handling 

• Breeding practices 

• Environment 

• Human responsibility 

But how well humans understand dog behaviour and how they respond to it, is often overlooked. Dogs communicate stress, fear and discomfort through body language long before an incident occurs. Whether these signals are recognised and acted upon can make the difference between prevention and harm. This means reform must address both ends of the relationship. It is not enough to focus solely on the dog. The knowledge, awareness, and responses of the people around that dog matter just as much.  

The role of education in prevention 

One of the most important opportunities within this review is to strengthen public education around dog behaviour and human response. Dogs communicate constantly – through body language, stress signals and behaviour – but this language is not always widely understood. Bridging that gap is one of the most practical and cost-effective tools available for preventing incidents before they escalate.  

This kind of education supports: 

• Safer interactions between people and dogs 

• More confident, informed and responsive dog guardians 

• Earlier identification of welfare and behaviour concerns 

• Better outcomes for both animals and communities 

Importantly, this is about early understanding and prevention. 

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Upcoming videos: Safe Dogs & Safe Communities 

CANZ will soon be releasing a couple of videos featuring animal behaviour experts to support these key messages and will continue to share evidence-based guidance to help New Zealanders understand how to keep themselves and their communities safe - while also giving their pets the best possible quality of life. 

Our upcoming videos include: 

• What to Do When a Dog Approaches 

• Responding to a Dog Bite: Steps to Take 

Dogs deserve to live good lives, and communities deserve to feel safe. Achieving both requires modern legislation, informed by science, supported by education, and applied consistently across the country. 

Companion Animals NZ looks forward to engaging in the review process and contributing to outcomes that support positive welfare for dogs and safer communities for everyone. 

Read the recent Government announcement here: Government orders review of Dog Control Act | Beehive.govt.nz 

The secret lives of klepto-cats

Imagine finding your neighbour’s glove on your doorstep one morning, then a child’s sock the next. Day after day, new items turn up at your door. This is the reality for a few pet parents of furry felons. Cats who steal items from around their neighbourhood can be a quite humourous topic, but also frustrating at times - and may even be a sign of anxiety in your cat. Let us paws for a moment and discuss! 

Feline kleptomania is a surprisingly well-documented phenomenon - so much so that the behaviour has even earned them a popular nickname: 'klepto-cats'. Cats across the world have been caught red-pawed hoarding socks, stealing jewellery, and smuggling entire baguettes through the cat flap.

While stories of klepto-cats can be amusing, we recognise that roaming behaviour can sometimes create frustration for neighbours — and can impact local wildlife. These are important and often complex conversations within our communities. This article focuses on understanding the behaviour itself (why some cats collect and bring home unusual items) and how guardians can channel those natural instincts in positive, responsible ways. So, what prompts them to do this and why are some cats more prone to thieving than others? 

Why do cats steal? 

Scientists are still puzzling over exactly why cats do this, but researchers and animal behaviour consultants have proposed several overlapping explanations for this quirky behaviour - which suggest multiple factors are at play. These behaviours are often rooted in high intelligence breeds, cats with strong hunting instincts, or a desire for interaction.

A fascinating 2024 article¹ in The Guardian explored these theories in depth and here are some of the leading explanations:  

1. The hunting instinct 

Even well-fed domestic cats retain a powerful prey drive. In the wild, a successful hunt results in "prey" being carried back to a safe location. Your cat's brain doesn't always distinguish between a mouse and a fluffy slipper - both get the full predator treatment: stalk, pounce, carry home. 

2. Attention & learned behaviour 

The first time your cat dragged in a sock and you erupted with laughter and fuss, you may have accidentally encouraged this behaviour. "Bring the thing → get the humans excited" is an extremely learnable loop. Researchers suggest ignoring the behaviour rather than reacting. This is the best approach to avoid reinforcing it (but we know this can be hard in the moment!).  

3. Boredom & under-stimulation 

Cats that don't get enough mental or physical stimulation will find their own entertainment. Stealing provides novelty, movement, and the satisfaction of a "successful hunt." An under-stimulated cat is an inventive one. 

4. Desire to remove unwanted scents 

Some researchers suggest cats may steal items, especially worn shoes or clothing, as a way of removing strong or unfamiliar smells from their territory. What looks like theft to us may be a form of feline housekeeping.  

5. Gift-giving to their colony 

Cats sometimes bring objects (or prey) to their human family as gifts, as a sign of affection and group-belonging. If your cat dumps a neighbour's gardening glove at your feet, they may genuinely think they are being helpful. 

6. Compulsive behaviour 

In some cases, especially in oriental breeds with high intelligence, stealing can become compulsive: an almost OCD-like repetition. This is worth mentioning to a vet if the behaviour is excessive or accompanied by other signs of anxiety.

So, What’s the Right Move? 

While there’s no simple answer, there are some things you can do to optimise your cat’s environment and see if it influences their behaviour. 

1. Enrich their environment 

More play, more puzzle feeders, more vertical space. A stimulated cat is less likely to freelance as a neighbourhood bandit. 

2. Don't reward the behaviour (accidentally) 

If your reaction to the stolen item is laughter and a fuss, you are training them. Try a calm, neutral response - remove the item quietly.  This is recommended by researchers - even any negative attention can reinforce the behaviour. 

3. Set up a "drop zone" 

Some owners place a basket near the cat flap where stolen goods can be deposited. Lean into the chaos and make a returns policy  for the neighbourhood. This may include adding to local noticeboards online or speaking with neighbours, in an attempt to reunite the items with their owners. 

4. See a vet if it escalates 

Compulsive stealing, particularly when paired with anxiety, over-grooming, or eating non-food items, warrants a conversation with your vet, veterinary behaviourist or a feline behaviour consultant. 

Klepto-cats may make us smile, but we also acknowledge that roaming behaviour can sometimes be a nuisance for neighbours and affect local wildlife. By better understanding why cats collect and “gift” unusual items, we can respond in ways that support their wellbeing — while being mindful of the people and environments they share. Keep reading for the Klepto-Cat Hall of Fame!

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Hall of fame: Famous feline thieves 

Some of the real-life cat burglars have even made headlines and won the internet's heart. 

Dusty the Klepto Kitty - San Mateo, California 

Perhaps the most famous thieving cat of all time. Over several years, Dusty the Siamese cat reportedly stole more than 600 items from neighbours including 100 gloves, 73 socks and 8 swimsuits! He became a viral sensation and even has his own Wikipedia page: Dusty the Klepto Kitty - Wikipedia.  

Denis the Cat Burglar - UK 

Denis the Cat Burglar developed a habit of stealing from neighbours' homes and gained media attention on BBC 1’s The One Show, Heart FM, and in local newspapers, and served as a mascot helping raise funds for Homeless Cat Rescue. He also got his own Youtube Channel³. 

Keith the Kleptomaniac 

Keith was a cat that featured in the media in 2021 - a black cat from Christchurch, that became notorious for stealing shoes, clothes, underwear, and live eels - among other things! His owners leave a box of his “treasures” at the front of their home. 

Leao The Bandit 

Leao is a black cat from Upper Hutt who has a mischievous habit of stealing multiple shoes around the Silverstream neighborhood. Adopted at four months old, he’s an otherwise typical cat - except for his adventures, which are documented on his own Facebook page³ with videos of his thefts and the items he brings home. 

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References: 

1 . *Sample, I. (2024, July 20). Cat burglars: scientists try to solve mystery of why felines ‘steal’ random objects. The Guardian. Retrieved 3/3/26 at: https://www.theguardian.com/science/article/2024/jul/20/cat-burglars-scientists-try-to-solve-mystery-of-why-felines-steal-random-objects  

2. DenisCatBurglarNewman (2012, May). YouTube Channel available at: https://www.youtube.com/user/DenisCatBurglarNewma 

3 Facebook profile (Leao The Bandit). Facebook. Retrieved on 3/3/26 at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584747365984 

NZ Companion Animal Register: What the 2025 data tells us

Every year, the NZ Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) helps reunite hundreds, if not thousands, of animals with the people who love them. When we looked back at the data from 2025, some clear patterns emerged — and they tell an important story about why microchipping and registration matter. 

The numbers at a glance 

• 108,930 animals were registered on NZCAR in 2025, helping ensure pets could be identified if they went missing.  This brings the total animal records on the NZCAR to 1.5 million.

• More than 10,000 pets were reported lost during the year on LostPet (Of these, nearly 9,000 were marked as found or listing expired).

• Over 15,400 animals were reported as found by either SPCA, shelters or members of the public trying to identify their guardian or get them home safely. 

• The number of dogs reported lost increased by nearly 10% compared with the previous year, highlighting the ongoing importance of prevention and identification. 

What the data tells us: 

• Time matters. The longer a pet is missing, the more likely it is that a microchip and up-to-date registration will be what ultimately brings them home. 

• Registration makes a real difference. Animals that are not registered remain missing around 30% longer than those registered on NZCAR. 

• Some species are especially vulnerable. Excluding cats and dogs, fewer than 20% of other animals reported lost on LostPet are microchipped, making reunification much harder. 

• Cats tend to be missing for longer. Cats are more likely to roam and may be taken in by well-meaning people, or simply go unidentified — which is why microchipping and registration are so important for cats. 

• Based on our available records (from October 2023 onwards), December 2025 had the highest number of 'found’ pet listings to date (animals marked as ‘found’ by members of the public trying to identify their guardian or return them home).  Summer is definitely when there are more lost and found listings, and we are also seeing an uptake in people using the platform.

“ “Every day, Approved Users reunite pets with their families all across the country - often without our team ever knowing, which is a sign the system is working. ”

— Sarah Clements, NZCAR Manager

“NZCAR works thanks to the combined efforts of our Approved Users and our support office,” says Sarah Clements, NZCAR Manager. “Every day, Approved Users reunite pets with their families all across the country - often without our team ever knowing, which is a sign the system is working. At the same time, our support office supports people through some of their hardest moments, hearing the distress and worry that comes with a missing beloved animal.

“We’re incredibly grateful for both, and we always appreciate hearing your success stories. Do reach out if you've had success being reunited with your animal as a result of their NZCAR registration as it is a great way to give people in similar situations some well-needed hope!”

The takeaway 

These insights reinforce a simple but powerful message: microchipping and keeping registration details up to date gives lost animals the best chance of getting home — especially when time passes. 

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Budgerigars in New Zealand: Are we underestimating them?

The distinctive chatter of budgerigars has been a soundtrack to New Zealand childhoods for generations. In lounges from Auckland to Invercargill, these small birds have occupied corner cages, their cheerful chirps punctuating family dinners and lazy Sunday afternoons. But what do these intelligent, social creatures actually need to thrive? 

A brief history of budgies in Aotearoa 

The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) is a unique Australian species and the name budgerigar originates from the Aboriginal term ‘Betcherrygah,’ which anecdotally means: ‘Good food’. While Aboriginals once regarded the species as a food source, today budgerigars are widely recognised as intelligent, social companions rather than as food. People made the first recordings of budgerigars in the early 1800s¹. In Australia, vast flocks move nomadically across the landscape in search of water and seeding grasses. These hardy little birds are believed to have first arrived in New Zealand in the late 1800s to early 1900s, but by the mid-1900s had become firmly established in New Zealand's pet culture, and in 1934 the NZ Budgerigar Society was formed². Their small size and modest price made them accessible to many families, while their breeding potential attracted hobbyists who developed increasingly varied colour mutations.  

The Appeal of Budgies 

It's easy to understand why budgerigars are considered to be one of New Zealand's most popular pet birds³. They are charming, intelligent companions that pack remarkable personality into a 30-gram body.  

• Accessibility and affordability play a significant role. Budgies are relatively inexpensive to purchase, with pet shop birds typically costing between $20-60, though they may occasionally be available for adoption or through rehoming situations. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living or homes without large outdoor spaces. For families wanting to introduce children to pet ownership, budgies seem like a manageable first step. 

• Intelligence and personality set budgies apart from other small pets. Despite their diminutive size, budgerigars are true parrots with the cognitive abilities that entails. They can learn to mimic human speech - some individuals developing vocabularies of hundreds of words⁴ - and they demonstrate problem-solving skills, playfulness, and distinct personalities. A well-socialised budgie can form genuine bonds with their human caretakers, seeking out interaction and responding to familiar voices. 

• Visual appeal has been enhanced through generations of selective breeding. While wild budgerigars display green and yellow plumage with black barring (black stripes on their head, back and wing coverts), captive breeding has produced an extraordinary range of colours: blues, whites, yellows, greys, and violet shades, along with various pattern mutations like pieds and spangles.  

• Lifespan and commitment fall into a middle ground. In captivity with proper care, budgerigars commonly live 8-12 years. Exceptional individuals can reach 15-20 years, and the oldest recorded budgerigar, a bird named Charlie from England, lived to 29 years and 2 months⁵.  

The Welfare Reality 

Although budgerigars are popular pets, they frequently receive inadequate care, partly because their reputation as 'easy pets' results in insufficient attention to their nutritional needs, living conditions, mental stimulation, and veterinary care - all of which compromise their welfare in domestic settings⁶. 

• Appropriate socialisation and housing: Social isolation and housing is likely the most widespread welfare concern. Wild budgerigars in Australia live in enormous flocks, sometimes containing thousands of individuals. These highly social birds continuously communicate with one another, engage in mutual feather care and grooming (known as preening), and participate in group activities. However, the conventional pet budgerigar setup typically features a lone bird in a cage, often with only a mirror to provide social stimulation. Inadequate cage size exacerbates these welfare concerns.  
   
  Standard budgerigar cages available in pet stores, often around 40cm in width, offer only just enough space for a budgie to fully spread its wings. Providing more space is preferable. The cage should include nesting boxes or areas with shrubbery cover where budgies can feel safe and have places to hide and rest. Toys should be rotated regularly to maintain interest, e.g., foraging toys that hide treats, shredding toys made from paper or palm leaves, climbing structures, wooden ladders, rope perches, and tree stands all serve different enrichment functions. Budgies also enjoy bathing, so providing a shallow dish of water for this purpose contributes to their wellbeing.  
   

• Time outside their cage: It is important to give budgies supervised time outside of their cages and provide them with environmental enrichment opportunities (e.g. foraging toys). Several hours of free flight daily helps maintain physical health and provides essential mental stimulation. This requires careful preparation: close all windows and doors, keep other pets out, turn off ceiling fans, hide electrical cords, remove or secure household plants (many are toxic), and cover large mirrors and glass windows to prevent collision injuries. 
   

• A balanced diet is essential for budgerigar wellbeing, yet many pet birds receive inadequate nutrition. Commercial seed mixes may be high in fat and deficient in essential nutrients, and seeds alone cannot provide complete nutrition. A proper diet should consist predominantly of high-quality pellets formulated for budgerigars, supplemented daily with a variety of fresh vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and dark leafy greens), sprouted seeds, and limited fruit offered weekly as treats (like banana, apples, or melon). Pellets are recommended as the dietary foundation because they provide balanced nutrition that birds cannot selectively avoid, ensuring they receive all required nutrients rather than choosing only their preferred (and often least nutritious) food items. Budgerigars must have access to fresh, clean water at all times, and mineral blocks should be provided for essential calcium, particularly during moulting or breeding.  

Caring for budgerigars requires more than casual attention; these intelligent, social birds have specific needs for companionship, space, diet, mental stimulation, and veterinary care. Even in pairs, they benefit from daily interaction with their human family, who become part of their flock. Rather than assuming they are “starter pets,” prospective owners should honestly assess whether they can provide the right circumstances: a suitable home, at least two birds, a varied diet, and a decade-long commitment. When those needs can be met, budgerigars are delightful, engaging companions; if not, it may be worth reconsidering whether they are the right fit for your household. 

 References: 

¹The Budgerigar Council of South Australia. (n.d.). History of the budgerigar. BCSA. https://bcsa.com.au/varieties/history-of-the-budgerigar 

²Flockhart, K. (2020). 75 years history of the Budgerigar Society of New Zealand. Budgerigar Society NZ. https://budgerigarsociety.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/75-Years-History-of-the-BSNZ-by-Keith-Flockhart.pdf 

³Hastings District Council. (n.d.). Budgerigar – Cornwall Park bird aviary. Hastings District Council. https://www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/hastings/reserves/cornwall-park/cornwall-park-bird-aviary/budgerigar 

⁴Leffer, L. (2025, 19 March). We finally know how parrots ‘talk’: Budgie brains reveal parallels between parrot and human speech. Popular Science. https://www.popsci.com/environment/budgie-brains-reveal-parallels-between-parrot-and-human-speech 

⁵Guinness World Records. (n.d.). Oldest budgerigar in captivity. Guinness World Records. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/70897-oldest-caged-budgerigar 

⁶Chalmers, R., Cooper, J., & Ventura, B. (2024). What are the priority welfare issues facing parrots in captivity? A modified Delphi approach to establish expert consensus. Animal Welfare, 33, e54. https://doi.org/10.1017/awf.2024.57 

CANZ joins the Commissioner for Animals Alliance

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is proud to have joined the Commissioner for Animals Alliance (CfAA) — a growing coalition calling for independent oversight that puts animals first in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

The Alliance is united in its call for the establishment of a Commissioner for Animals, an independent role that would provide fair, impartial oversight of New Zealand’s animal welfare system and ensure the interests and wellbeing of animals are genuinely represented at a parliamentary level. 

Why a Commissioner for Animals is needed 

New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act sets an important foundation for the care and protection of animals. On paper, the Act recognises animals as sentient and outlines standards for their treatment. However, in practice, the system is undermined by loopholes, limited oversight, and a lack of consistent enforcement. 

With gaps in monitoring, accountability, and implementation, animals can - and do - become victims of cruelty, exploitation, and neglect. Conflicts of interest are widespread, with regulation often heavily influenced by industries that profit from animals. Without truly independent oversight, animal welfare is too easily overshadowed by trade and agricultural interests. 

While Aotearoa New Zealand has independent commissioners to represent the interests of children, older people, and the environment, animals currently have no independent representation. A Commissioner for Animals would help address this imbalance. 

“Animals can’t speak for themselves, and currently they have no independent representation at a parliamentary level.”

— Pete Monk, CANZ CEO

CANZ CEO, Pete Monk, says that a Commissioner for Animals would be a meaningful step toward a fairer, more accountable animal welfare system. 

“New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act provides an important foundation for protecting animals, but without independent oversight it too often falls short in practice,” says Pete. “Animals can’t speak for themselves, and currently they have no independent representation at a parliamentary level. By joining the Commissioner for Animals Alliance, CANZ is standing alongside others calling for fair, impartial oversight that genuinely puts animals first. A Commissioner for Animals would help ensure the law is upheld as intended and support a kinder, more accountable future for animal welfare in Aotearoa New Zealand.” 

A unified call for independent oversight 

The Commissioner for Animals Alliance brings together more than 20 organisations and advocates who share a common goal: to strengthen animal welfare by ensuring animals have independent representation at the highest level of decision-making. 

The Alliance is focused on: 

• Promoting the Commissioner for Animals campaign as a unified alliance 

• Cultivating public support for a Commissioner for Animals 

• Demonstrating both the need for, and support of, a Commissioner for Animals to policy makers. 

More than 30,000 people have already signed a petition, sending a clear message that New Zealanders want stronger, more accountable animal welfare protections. 

Organisations within the Alliance include SAFE, Animals Aotearoa, HUHA, the Animal Law Association, and many others working across animal welfare, advocacy, and law. 

A hopeful path forward 

The systemic issues associated with animal welfare require authentic and meaningful solutions. Independent representation for animals would help ensure that their legal protections, interests, welfare, and wellbeing are consistently prioritised. 

A Commissioner for Animals would: 

• Provide independent oversight of New Zealand’s animal welfare framework 

• Support the government’s commitment to upholding the Animal Welfare Act 

• Promote public understanding of the Act, its codes of welfare, and associated regulations 

• Help ensure animal welfare decisions are informed by evidence, transparency, and accountability. 

What can you do to help? 

1. Sign the petition 

Add your voice by signing the Commissioner for Animals petition on the CfAA website. 

2. Contact your MP 

Talking to your local Member of Parliament is one of the most effective ways to create change. Guidance on how to do this can be found in the “What can I do to help?” section of the CfAA website. 

Commissioner for Animals Alliance - New Zealand  

Pets, emergencies, and the law: Why clarity matters

🚨 Submissions are now open on New Zealand’s Emergency Management Bill 
Closes: 3 February 2026 

New Zealand’s Emergency Management Bill is currently open for public submissions. This Bill is the second revision and has benefited from significant input from animal agencies, including a submission from us at Companion Animals NZ (CANZ). 

We’re pleased to see that the Bill now does refer to animals - this is an important step forward. However, there are still gaps that matter deeply for pets, the people who care for them, and the communities responding to emergencies. 

Pets are family — but the law still treats them as property 

Under current New Zealand law, companion animals are legally classified as property. This legal framework is long-standing and affects how animals are treated across many areas of law, including emergency management. 

While this approach may work in some contexts, it becomes problematic during disasters. When animals are grouped alongside property like buildings or vehicles, it risks overlooking a crucial reality: animals are living, sentient beings more important to save than objects. 

New Zealand already recognises this. The Animal Welfare Act 1999 (as amended 2015) explicitly acknowledges that animals are sentient — able to feel pain, distress and emotions — and places obligations on people to meet their physical, health and behavioural needs. 

The challenge is that this recognition of sentience isn’t always carried through into emergency legislation.  

We are expressing our concern within the draft Bill over the delegation of power to destroy* animals (s 133 (1) (a, b) in much the same way as the power to destroy property. While there are situations where euthanasia may be necessary in an emergency, a power that allows the destruction of a sentient being must be handled with great care. As currently worded, the Bill doesn’t go far enough in making animal health and wellbeing a core focus when these decisions are made. 

 We’d also like recognition of ‘animal sentience’ consistent with the Animal Welfare Act 1999 (as amended 2015) in the preliminary provisions.   

  CANZ believes emergency powers affecting animals should be clearly guided by: 

• A duty to preserve life wherever possible 

• Explicit recognition that animals are sentient 

• Alignment with existing animal welfare obligations. 

Why this is important 

The current Bill refers to animals, but it doesn’t clearly state that companion animals are part of households for the purposes of emergency planning. Nor does it clearly set out how pets should be treated during evacuation, response and recovery. 

CANZ is asking for that clarity — so everyone, from councils to emergency responders to families themselves, knows that pets are meant to be included and protected as much as possible, not just considered when it’s convenient. 

This matters because almost two thirds of New Zealand households (64%) share their home with a companion animal. When emergency planning doesn’t reflect this reality: 

• People may delay evacuating 

• Families may remain stranded 

• Some may attempt to re-enter dangerous areas to rescue their animals. 

These situations put both people and animals at risk. 

Recovery matters too: reuniting lost pets 

Emergencies don’t end when the immediate danger passes. Recovery can take weeks, months or longer — and for many families, reuniting with a lost pet is a critical part of healing. 

That’s why we’re also calling for identification and reunification of lost pets to be recognised as an essential part of emergency response and recovery. 

Microchipping, registration on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), and reunification efforts aren’t “extras”. They reduce distress, support community recovery, and help bring families back together after disasters. 

Planning for real life 

Emergency planning works best when it reflects how people actually live. For many New Zealanders, that means planning for pets as part of the family. 

CANZ supports the direction of the Emergency Management Bill and welcomes the inclusion of animals. But we believe it can go further — by clearly recognising companion animals as part of households and acknowledging animal sentience, so decisions made in emergencies protect life, welfare and wellbeing wherever possible. 

You can learn more about the Bill below and make a submission before 3 February 2026. We will be making our submission in line with the points above. 

Emergency Management Bill (No 2) - New Zealand Parliament
How to make a submission - New Zealand Parliament

* We know “destroy” isn’t a nice word to use when talking about animals. It’s the formal term used in legislation and parts of the animal sector, and in practice usually refers to euthanasia. 

Does your mood affect how you read dog emotions?

New research reveals surprising insights into human perception of canine feelings 

We like to think we understand our dogs - that a wagging tail means happiness and tucked ears signal fear. But new research¹ suggests our interpretation of dog emotions may be more influenced by our own emotional state than we realise, though not always in the ways scientists expected. 

In a fascinating two-part study, researchers explored whether human mood affects how we perceive emotions in dogs. The results challenge long-held assumptions about emotional perception across species. In short – yes our mood does impact how we read the dog’s emotions! 

In the first part of the study, researchers changed people’s moods using general images that had nothing to do with animals. Even though this successfully affected how people were feeling, it didn’t change how they interpreted dogs’ emotions. 

But in the second part of the study, when people were shown images of dogs to influence their mood, something unexpected happened. Instead of seeing dogs’ emotions in line with how they were feeling, people did the opposite. 

Those who were put in a low mood were more likely to see dogs as happier, while those in a positive mood were more likely to judge the same dogs as sadder.  

This goes against what we usually see in human emotion research, where people in good moods tend to see others more positively². 

This contrast effect - where negative moods led to more positive interpretations and positive moods led to more negative interpretations of dog emotions - represents a novel finding in the field of human-animal emotional perception.  

““The most unexpected finding of the study was that participants placed in a low mood after viewing sad-looking dogs were more likely to rate dogs in subsequent videos as happier.””

— Dr. Holly Molinaro

Why does this matter?  

Understanding how our emotional state biases our perception of animal emotions has real implications for animal welfare. Misreading emotional cues can lead to inappropriate handling, delayed intervention, or unmet behavioural needs for animals in our care - whether at home, in shelters, or in veterinary settings. 

Next time you’re watching your dog, perhaps think twice before presuming you are reading their emotions correctly and reflect on how you’re feeling too! 

To read the published paper, follow this link: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20411 

Meet the Researcher: Dr. Holly Molinaro 

Dr. Holly Molinaro, lead author of this study, was featured in our 2025 Winter Webinar Series, where she presented on reading and understanding dog emotions: https://youtu.be/qdgExbvShWE?si=4LuklTzNxe3km2hT 

Dr. Molinaro is an animal welfare consultant with a strong background in animal behaviour research. She holds a B.S. in Biology (Psychology minor), an M.S. in Biology focused on primate social behaviour, and a PhD from Arizona State University examining dog emotions and human perception. Currently, she is the founder and president of Animal Wellbeing Solutions, a consulting and research firm dedicated to advancing animal welfare through science, data, and communication. 

This article summarises research published in PeerJ (2025) by Holly G. Molinaro and Clive D.L. Wynne from Arizona State University's Psychology Department 

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References: 

1.Molinaro HG, Wynne CDL. 2025. Paw-spective shift: how our mood alters the way we read dog emotions. PeerJ 13:e20411. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.20411 

2. Schmid, P.C., Schmid Mast, M. Mood effects on emotion recognition. Motiv Emot 34, 288–292 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11031-010-9170-0 

Peekaboo! Cracking the mystery of hiding cats

If you've ever found your cat squeezed into a cardboard box, tucked under the bed, or mysteriously vanished into a closet, you're witnessing one of the most fundamental and fascinating aspects of feline behaviour. While it might seem like your cat is playing an elaborate game of hide-and-seek, the truth is far more complex and rooted in millions of years of evolution.

The dual nature of cats: predator and prey

To understand why cats hide, we must first appreciate their unique position in the natural world. Despite thousands of years of domestication, cats retain many of their wild ancestors' instincts. Cats are both hunters and hunted. While cats are skilled predators of small rodents, birds, and insects, they are also vulnerable to larger carnivores. This dual role has shaped their behaviour profoundly, making hiding an essential survival strategy for both stalking prey and avoiding becoming prey themselves.

The Science Behind Hiding Behaviour

Understanding feline emotions and behaviour

Dr Sarah Heath, a UK-based veterinarian and internationally recognised specialist in Behavioural Medicine, recently toured New Zealand as part of the NZVA Companion Animal Veterinarians’ (CAV) Roadshow. Having just completed its second year, the CAV Roadshow is fast becoming a flagship initiative. The aim is to bring world-leading experts to Aotearoa to deliver high-quality continuing professional development (CPD) to veterinarians and allied veterinary professionals across the regions, ensuring New Zealand’s companion animals benefit from the latest global knowledge and best practice. Plans are already underway to bring another UK-based superstar to our shores in 2026!

This year’s CAV Roadshow focused on the link between feline emotions and behaviour, with Dr Heath presenting to packed evening sessions in Auckland, Tauranga, Palmerston North, Nelson, Christchurch, and Invercargill. Throughout the tour, she emphasised that understanding a cat’s underlying emotional motivations is fundamental to interpreting and managing behavioural expression, ultimately supporting better welfare outcomes for cats and the people who care for them.

Hiding serves as a crucial stress-management tool for cats. Research has demonstrated that providing hiding opportunities significantly reduces stress in cats, particularly in shelter environments. A study from the Netherlands found that newly arrived shelter cats provided with hiding boxes showed significantly lower stress levels and adapted to their new environment approximately seven days faster than cats without hiding boxes¹.

Safe spaces and perceived threat avoidance

Cats instinctively seek enclosed spaces because these locations help them feel secure from potential threats. Sarah says: “Even when a cat's entire body isn't concealed, such as when only their head and shoulders are hidden under a towel, they feel significantly safer. This behaviour stems from the principle that if they cannot see a potential threat, they perceive themselves as being safer from detection - “If I can't see you, you can't see me”.

One of the five pillars of a healthy feline environment

A team of internationally recognised feline experts including Sarah have developed a framework called the "Five Pillars" for creating optimal feline environments, with safe hiding places being one of the fundamental requirements². Each cat should have access to at least one designated safe space - a private, secure area where they can retreat when feeling threatened or simply desiring solitude.

These spaces may be at ground level or elevated, and it is important that guardians respect their cat’s choice to use them by not disturbing them when they are hiding. In multi-cat households, safe areas should have multiple entry and exit points so another cat cannot block access, ensuring each cat has a true sense of refuge. This is often overlooked by well-meaning guardians who install climbing walls or shelves without making ledges wide enough for cats to pass each other comfortably, which can create conflict. Optimising a cat’s environment means thinking about how they can navigate past one another comfortably and calmly.

Why cats choose specific hiding spots

• Temperature and comfort. Cats love warmth! Their preferred ambient temperature is around 30-38°C³, considerably warmer than most humans prefer. Many favoured hiding spots, such as near heaters, on top of appliances, or in sunny patches of enclosed spaces, offer the warmth cats naturally seek, and are perfect for the extensive napping cats are famous for.

• Vantage points and environmental monitoring. While we often think of cats hiding in dark, enclosed spaces, they also frequently choose elevated hiding spots that offer excellent views of their surroundings. This behaviour relates to their predatory nature - being able to observe without being observed gives cats both security and strategic advantage.

• Sleep and rest requirements. Cats sleep an average of 12-16 hours per day. During these extended rest periods, they need to feel safe from disturbance. In the wild, sleeping animals are vulnerable to predators, so cats seek hiding spots that minimise the risk of being startled awake. Dark, quiet, enclosed spaces allow cats to sleep more deeply and continuously, which is essential for their physical and mental health.

When hiding becomes a concern

While hiding is a normal and healthy behaviour, sudden changes in hiding patterns can indicate problems. Behavioural changes often signal underlying physical or psychological issues. Cats are notorious for masking illness - another survival instinct inherited from their wild ancestors.

Showing weakness could make them targets for predators, so cats often conceal signs of pain or sickness. Increased or excessive hiding can be one of the first behavioural indicators that something is wrong.

If your previously social cat suddenly starts hiding for extended periods, or if you notice other symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargy, changes in litter box habits, or vocalisations, veterinary consultation is essential.

Stress and environmental changes

Changes in the household can trigger increased hiding behaviour. New people, new pets, renovations, loud noises, or alterations to the cat's routine can all cause stress. Cats are highly sensitive to environmental changes and may respond by increasing their hiding behaviour as a coping mechanism. While this is normal in the short term, prolonged hiding accompanied by other behavioural changes may indicate the cat is struggling to adapt. Emotional health and physical health both lie at the core of feline welfare.

Supporting healthy hiding behaviour

Rather than discouraging your cat's natural inclination to hide, why not embrace and facilitate it in healthy ways. Offer them the three-dimensional space, a space that is often untapped - shelves, tops of cupboards and tops of wardrobes. Or even very simple solutions, such as cardboard boxes. These remain one of the most popular and effective hiding spots - they're enclosed, easily accessible, and cats find them irresistible - just ensure cats have a way to escape should they live in a multi-cat household.

Other ways to create hiding spots are:

• Cat tunnels (wide) and cave-style beds

• Blankets or bedding draped over chairs to create instant tents

• Accessible spaces under furniture with comfortable bedding

• Cat trees (which also allows them to scratch, another natural behaviour)

• Elevated perches with partial screening.

When your cat chooses to hide, respect that decision. Forcing interaction or removing a cat from their chosen safe space can damage the trust between you and your pet and increase their stress levels. This is particularly important to communicate to children and visitors who may not understand feline body language and boundaries.

The multi-cat household

In homes with multiple cats, providing adequate hiding spots becomes even more critical. The general formula recommended is: one resource location per cat plus one extra. This applies not just to litter boxes but to all resources, including hiding spots.

This ensures that each cat has access to safe spaces without competition and reduces the potential for conflict. And keep litter boxes separate - cats don’t like to be watched while toileting.

The next time you find your cat tucked into an impossibly small box or mysteriously absent from sight, remember: they're not being antisocial or strange. They're simply being perfectly, wonderfully cat-like, following instincts honed over millions of years of feline evolution.

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References

1.Van der Leij WJR, Selman LDAM, Vernooij JCM, Vinke CM (2019): The effect of a hiding box on stress levels and body weight in Dutch shelter cats; a randomized controlled trial. PLoS ONE14(10): e0223492. https://doi.org/ 10.1371/journal.pone.0223492

2. Ellis SLH, Rodan I, Carney HC, et al (2013): AAFP and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 15(3):219-230. doi:10.1177/1098612X13477537

3. Stella JL, Croney CC (2016): Environmental Aspects of Domestic Cat Care and Management: Implications for Cat Welfare. Scientific World Journal. 2016:6296315. doi: 10.1155/2016/6296315. Epub 2016 Sep 28. PMID: 27774506; PMCID: PMC5059607.

Heath, S. (2018). Understanding feline emotions: and their role in problem behaviours. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 20(5), 437-444.

Stewart, J. (2013, May). Creating a cat-friendly home. Summary of Dr Sarah Heath’s WSAVA presentation, VetScript, 26(4), 10–12. New Zealand Veterinary Association.

Companion Animals NZ launches campaign to fund desexing and microchipping — as extraordinary '14 years missing' reunion highlights the power of a pet microchip

With Giving Tuesday taking place on 2 December, Companion Animals NZ is calling on New Zealanders to help give vulnerable animals a safer, healthier start in life — and to support life-changing reunions like the one that unfolded recently for an Auckland family and their much-loved cat, Mo. 

This year, Companion Animals NZ is aiming to raise more than $10,000 to support desexing and microchipping grants for shelters across Aotearoa, ensuring more animals can be protected, reunited, and given the best possible beginning. Every cat, dog (or other species!) helped through these grants also receives free registration on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register. 

CANZ CEO, Pete Monk, says "Last year, New Zealanders showed us what’s possible when we come together for animals who need us most. We hoped to raise $6,000 — and with generous public donations we blew that out of the water.  

“Combining donations with funds we’d already committed from our organisation, we were able to contribute $180,000 in grants that went to more than 20 shelters across the country. This supported 750 animals to be desexed and 2000 animals with microchipping, and registration.” 

Mo’s story: Fourteen years missing — and finally home 

Mo, a friendly, smoochy Auckland cat, disappeared from his Beach Haven home in 2011. His family searched tirelessly — flyers, vet notifications, social posts — but Mo never reappeared. As the years passed, his guardians moved homes, and even overseas, carrying with them the quiet heartbreak of not knowing what became of him. 

Then recently, everything changed. 

A veterinary clinic on the North Shore scanned a stray cat’s microchip and, despite outdated details, traced Mo’s guardian using his name and university profile. 

Nearly 14 years after he went missing, Mo was reunited with his family a few weeks ago in what his guardian described as a “gobsmacking” moment. 

“His personality hasn’t changed one bit,” his guardian Paul said. “He had the whole vet team eating out of his hand. Just a huge love bug.” 

While parts of Mo’s long journey remain unknown, one thing is clear: his microchip number was the key that brought him home.  

CANZ CEO, Pete, continues that Mo’s reunion is a powerful reminder of why microchipping — and most importantly keeping registration details up to date — is essential.  

“With thousands of lost animals entering shelters every year, microchipping remains one of the most effective tools for returning pets to the people who love them. Registration on the NZ Companion Animal Register is the most critical step – it is where people keep their contact details up to date so that they can be contacted in the event their animal does go missing. A microchip alone is not enough.”  

This year’s fundraising is already underway, with a live tracker showing progress toward the $10,000 goal CANZ is hoping once again to exceed.  Every contribution helps give vulnerable animals across New Zealand a truly great start — and may one day help make another extraordinary reunion possible. 

Donations can be made here: Companion Animals NZ - Give them a Great Start  

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ABOUT CANZ   

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use education, advocacy and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.4 million pets registered. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, New Zealand. Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).    

Why Cat Poop Matters: From Litter Box to Landscape

Cats hold a special place in Kiwi homes - graceful, independent, and beloved companions. With more than 1.26 million cats across New Zealand and 40% of households sharing their home with at least one feline, these animals are deeply woven into the fabric of New Zealand family life¹.

Yet, while most cat guardians take pride in caring for their feline friends, there’s one aspect of ownership that tends to slip under the radar: what happens to all that cat poop. After looking at dog waste recently, we’re now turning our attention to cats! Cat waste comes with its own set of challenges for public health, wildlife, and the environment. 

Why Cat Waste Deserves Attention 

Approximately 90% of NZ owned cats have some form of outdoor access², meaning a large portion of their faeces is left directly in gardens, parks, and soil. Even for indoor cats, what we do with the contents of the litter box matters - particularly when it comes to how waste is disposed of. 

Cat faeces can harbour a range of pathogens - some with implications for human health, some for other cats, for wildlife, and others for our waterways. Understanding these risks helps cat guardians make informed, responsible choices without compromising their cats’ welfare. 

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 1. Pathogenic risks from cat faeces 

Toxoplasma Gondii – The Main Culprit 

Cats are the only animals capable of shedding Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in their faeces. Once shed, these hardy oocysts can survive in soil³ and water⁴ for months or even years - and be washed into waterways through land-based surface runoff⁵. Though vital to T. gondii's life cycle, cats rarely develop illness from infection. Most remain symptom-free. The parasite emerges from cysts when cats consume infected prey or raw meat, then reproduces in their digestive tract to produce oocysts.

For pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals, T. gondii can pose serious health risks, including miscarriage or illness from toxoplasmosis⁶. It’s also a growing wildlife concern: In New Zealand, toxoplasmosis has been identified as a significant threat to native and marine species, including Hector’s and Māui dolphins⁷, with infections traced to land-based runoff. The disease has been recorded as the leading cause of death in these dolphins and has also affected native species such as kiwi, kererū, kākā, and kākāriki. 

Other Parasites and Public Health Risks 

Cat faeces pose additional health risks beyond toxoplasmosis. Roundworm eggs (Toxocara cati) can cause toxocariasis in humans, leading to eye or organ damage⁸, and have been associated with disease in the North Island brown kiwi⁹. Hookworm larvae present in contaminated soil can penetrate human skin, causing cutaneous larva migrans with varying levels of discomfort, though such infections are rare in New Zealand. Diarrhoeal parasites including Giardia and Cryptosporidium can also be transmitted between animals and humans through faecal contamination. 

Bacterial and Viral Pathogens 

Cat faeces can also carry other pathogens, though these are less commonly transmitted than Toxoplasma. Bacterial contaminants include Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli (including antibiotic-resistant strains), which can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans¹⁰,¹¹,¹² .  

Threats to other cats 

While the pathogens mentioned above can affect both humans and other cats, feline panleukopenia, also called feline distemper, represents another particularly serious threat, affecting only cats and posing the greatest risk to kittens. This highly contagious virus, acting much like canine parvovirus, can be very deadly in kittens under one year of age (mortality rate over 90%)¹³. It is transmitted through contact with infected cats (infected body fluids or faeces) or contaminated environments, and can cause sudden, severe illness. Fortunately, vaccination offers highly effective, long-lasting protection. 

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2. Environmental Impacts 

Cat waste poses serious contamination risks to land and water ecosystems. When cats defecate outdoors, they introduce parasites and bacteria into soil - contaminating gardens, sandpits, and children's play areas. Toxoplasma gondii oocysts are particularly concerning due to their resilience, remaining infectious in moist soil for months. 

The contamination pathway extends from land to sea through stormwater runoff, which carries cat faeces into rivers and coastal waters. As we've mentioned, this creates a direct threat to marine mammals, with T. gondii infecting sea otters overseas and dolphins here in New Zealand. The problem is compounded by the fact that standard wastewater and septic systems cannot destroy these oocysts, meaning that even flushing cat litter contributes to environmental contamination. 

The scale of this marine pollution is evident in New Zealand research: T. gondii DNA was detected in 16.4% of commercially sourced green-lipped mussels, with higher prevalence in summer¹⁴. The presence of viable oocysts indicates substantial coastal contamination, likely from cat-derived runoff. This poses risks not only to marine wildlife but potentially to humans consuming contaminated shellfish. 

Responsible cat management is essential to reduce these cascading environmental and ecological impacts. 

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3. Managing Cat Waste Responsibly 

Indoor Litter Box Care 

The Code of Welfare for Companion Cats (MPI) provides clear recommendations: 

Litter trays should be checked daily, cleared of wastes, replenished or changed as required, or double-bagged and sealed for rubbish disposal in accordance with local by-laws¹⁵. Because toxoplasmosis can be transmitted through contact with cat faeces and poses particular risks to pregnant women, precautions such as wearing gloves should be taken when cleaning litter trays. 

Environmental considerations: 

• Clay-based and crystal (silica gel) litters have a significant environmental footprint due to their non-renewable sourcing, energy-intensive manufacturing, and persistence in landfills, making them less sustainable choices for environmentally conscious cat owners. 

• Plant-based or biodegradable litters made from wood, recycled paper, corn, or wheat are more environmentally sustainable choices, but they still need to be disposed of in general waste destined for landfill - not in compost or green waste bins. Do not compost cat waste for compost used in vegetable gardens or near edible plants.  

• Some councils are exploring municipal composting for pet waste¹⁶, but currently none of the commercial or community composting facilities in New Zealand accept pet waste and cat litter.  

Best practice for cat guardians: 

• Scoop the litter box daily to minimise oocyst survival. 

• Double-bag used litter before disposing of it in household rubbish. This simple precaution contains pathogens like T. gondii, prevents leakage of urine and moisture, controls odours, and protects waste collection workers from exposure to contaminated material if bags tear during handling or transport. 

• Never flush cat litter or faeces - even “flushable” brands - as oocysts can survive wastewater treatment. 

• Don't compost cat waste for compost used in vegetable gardens or near edible plants.

• Pregnant or immunocompromised individuals should avoid handling litter if at all possible. 

Outdoor Companion Cat Waste Management 

Cats typically bury or cover their waste for three main reasons rooted in their natural behaviour¹⁷.

First, it's an instinctive behaviour inherited from their wild ancestors. Second, cats are naturally clean animals with a keen sense of smell, so they cover their waste to eliminate odours that might interfere with eating, drinking, and playing, while preventing contamination of food and water sources. Finally, burying faeces is a survival instinct that helps cats hide their scent from potential predators and threats. 

However, this doesn't eliminate pathogen risks, as Toxoplasma oocysts and other pathogens can still leach into soil and reach waterways through rainfall and runoff. Most owners realistically can't pick up after their outdoor cats, but there are ways to reduce impact: 

• Cover sandpits when not in use. 

• Discourage cats from toileting in vegetable gardens with fencing or scent deterrents. 

• Contain cats within property boundaries or cat-proof areas where possible, particularly near sensitive habitats or waterways. 

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4. Why It Matters for Everyone 

Proper cat waste management extends far beyond simple hygiene - it reflects the deep interconnectedness between people, pets, and the environment. Our homes and gardens sit upstream from the very waterways and coastlines that sustain both our communities and native wildlife. Through thoughtful waste management practices, we can simultaneously protect our pets' health and safeguard the ecosystems upon which we all depend. 

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5. Best Practice Summary 

• 🧺 Scoop daily and double-bag waste before disposal in household rubbish 

• 🚫 Never flush cat litter or faeces, or compost cat waste for compost used in vegetable gardens or near edible plants.  

• 🧤 Take precautions if pregnant or immunocompromised – wear gloves when cleaning 

• 🏠 Keep cats contained within property boundaries where possible 

• 🌊 Protect vege gardens and sandpits from outdoor toileting 

• ♻️ Choose plant-based or biodegradable litter material - but dispose of it safely 

• 💉 Ensure cats are vaccinated, desexed, microchipped and registered 

• 🐾 Promote responsible cat guardianship to protect NZ’s wildlife and waterways. 

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Looking Ahead 

Research into safer composting methods for pet waste and innovations in sustainable cat litter products continue to evolve. Until these solutions become widely accessible, the most powerful tools we have are awareness and consistent daily action. 

CANZ supports council bylaws requiring desexing of cats by 12-16 weeks,  microchipping and registration on the NZ Companion Animal Register. Among many other benefits, these bylaws help prevent unwanted litters that could contribute to feral or stray populations – and further mitigate associated environmental impacts. 

At Companion Animals New Zealand, we believe responsible cat guardianship extends beyond meeting our cats' immediate needs - it encompasses caring for the environment we all share. Managing cat waste thoughtfully is an essential part of this commitment, ensuring our beloved companions and the ecosystems that sustain us can both thrive together. 

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References 

1.Companion Animals New Zealand (2025): Companion Animals in New Zealand 2024. Available from: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5d1bf13a3f8e880001289eeb/t/67c5362c18b9881a1fec4b5d/1740977787548/CANZ+2024+Pet+Data+Report-compressed.pdf 

2. Guinnefollau, L., Chung, H. J., Moody, C., Zobel, G., Waran, N., & Railton, R. (2025). New Zealanders’ attitudes to outdoor access for owned domestic cats. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 292, 106817.

3. Lélu, M., Villena, I., Dardé, M.-L., Aubert, D., Geers, R., Dupuis, E., Marnef, F., Poulle, M.-L., Gotteland, C., Dumètre, A., & Gilot-Fromont, E. (2012). Quantitative estimation of the viability of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in soil. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 78(15), 5127–5132. https://doi.org/10.1128/AEM.00246-12 

4. Dumètre, A., & Dardé, M. L. (2003). How to detect Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in environmental samples? FEMS Microbiology Reviews, 27(5), 651–661. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-6445(03)00066-1 

5. Miller, M. A., Gardner, I. A., Kreuder, C., Paradies, D. M., Worcester, K. R., Jessup, D. A., Dodd, E., Harris, M. D., Ames, J. A., Packham, A. E., & Conrad, P. A. (2002). Coastal freshwater runoff is a risk factor for Toxoplasma gondii infection of southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis). International Journal for Parasitology, 32(8), 997–1006. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0020-7519(02)00069-3 

6. Dubey, J. P., & Jones, J. L. (2008). Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans and animals in the United States. International Journal for Parasitology, 38(11), 1257–1278. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpara.2008.03.007 

7. Department of Conservation. (2020). Toxoplasmosis action plan: Addressing the threat of toxoplasmosis to Hector’s and Māui dolphins. June 2020. https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/diseases/toxoplasmosis-and-hectors-and-maui-dolphin/toxoplasmosis-action-plan/ 

8 Hartley, M. (2009). Toxocariasis — extra information. DermNet NZ. Retrieved November 10, 2025, from https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/toxocariasis 

9. French, A. F., Castillo-Alcala, F., Gedye, K. R., Roe, W. D., & Gartrell, B. D. (2020). Nematode larva migrans caused by Toxocara cati in the North Island brown kiwi (Apteryx mantelli). International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife, 11, 221–228. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijppaw.2020.02.011 

10. Bourne, J. A., Chong, W. L., & Gordon, D. M. (2019). Genetic structure, antimicrobial resistance and frequency of human associated Escherichia coli sequence types among faecal isolates from healthy dogs and cats living in Canberra, Australia. PLoS ONE, 14(3), e0212867. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0212867 

11. Te Whatu Ora. (n.d.). Campylobacteriosis – Communicable disease control manual. Retrieved November 11, 2025, from https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/for-health-professionals/clinical-guidance/communicable-disease-control-manual/campylobacteriosis 

12. Australian Companion Animal Zoonoses Advisory Panel. (2020). Companion Animal Zoonoses Guidelines. Retrieved from https://online.flippingbook.com/view/940613362/71 

13. Truyen, U., Addie, D., Belák, S., BoucrautBaralon, C., Egberink, H., Frymus, T., GruffyddJones, T., Hartmann, K., Hosie, M. J., Lloret, A., Lutz, H., Marsilio, F., Pennisi, M. G., Radford, A. D., Thiry, E., & Horzinek, M. C. (2009). Feline panleukopenia: ABCD guidelines on prevention and management. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 11(7), 538–546. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfms.2009.05.002 

14. Coupe, A., Howe, L., Burrows, E., Sine, A., Pita, A., Velathanthiri, N., Vallée, E., Hayman, D., Shapiro, K., & Roe, W. D. (2018). First report of Toxoplasma gondii sporulated oocysts and Giardia duodenalis in commercial green-lipped mussels (Perna canaliculus) in New Zealand. Parasitology Research, 117(5), 1453-1463. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00436-018-5832-8 

15. Ministry for Primary Industries. (2018, October 1). Code of welfare – Companion cats. New Zealand Government. https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/46021-Code-of-Welfare-Companion-cats 

16. Hurunui District Council. (n.d.). Discounted composting kits. Retrieved November 11, 2025, from https://www.hurunui.govt.nz/property-rates/rubbish-recycling/additional-information/bokashi-kits#:~:text=As%20pet%20waste%20should%20not%20put%20in,cycle%20of%20composting%2C%20your%20composter%20may%20never%20fill 

17. Hart, H. (2025, April 29). Why do cats bury their poop? PetMD. https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/why-do-cats-bury-their-poop 

Equine ID and Traceability Key to NZ Emergency Preparedness

NEW PUBLICATION

A new publication released this week, developed collaboratively between NZEHA and the CANZ animal welfare team, discusses the critical gap in equine population knowledge in New Zealand and how this hampers emergency preparedness and response.  

New Zealand currently has no accurate understanding of its equine population size or location. Estimates vary widely between 66,000 and 123,000 horses, with information scattered across approximately 70 different organisations. Many horses are registered with multiple organisations (creating duplication), while others - including feral and remote populations - are not registered anywhere at all. 

This fragmentation creates serious problems during emergencies. During Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, many displaced horses could not be identified. Traditional identification methods (like branding) were obscured by mud and injuries, and there was no centralised system to match horses with owners. The 2007 Equine Influenza outbreak in Australia similarly demonstrated that inaccurate population estimates and locations stretched resources and delayed response efforts. 

Why New Zealand Needs a Modern Equine Identification System 

Current New Zealand equine registries have not been designed with emergency management in mind. They often lack up-to-date information, fail to differentiate between active and deceased horses, don't consistently record horse locations or owner contact details, and use inconsistent data formats. With a large number of registration systems used for varying purposes, this presents challenges during an emergency response when rapid access to accurate, current information is critical. 

The National Equine Identification and Traceability (NEIT) system addresses these gaps through microchipping and registration in a centralised database. Developed by the New Zealand Equine Health Association (NZEHA) and the backend software provided by Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ), NEIT uses CANZ's established database infrastructure that already successfully manages 1.4 million companion animal records within the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR). 

Microchipping was selected because it meets the Biosecurity Act 1993 requirements for identification that is unique, clear, and lasting. The technology has proven safe and reliable: since 2004, over 76,900 Thoroughbreds have been microchipped with only a 0.25% failure rate and 0.0039% adverse reaction rate. Microchips provide unique permanent identification through a 15-digit ISO-standard code that cannot be altered or lost, unlike visual identification methods. 

Closing the Gaps in Equine Identification and Emergency Response 

New Zealand maintains one of the world's healthiest equine populations, free from most World Organisation for Animal Health-listed diseases and one of only three major populations free from Equine Influenza. With approximately $60 million worth of horses imported annually (primarily from Australia, but also from Europe and USA where many endemic diseases exist), maintaining this disease-free status is economically vital. 

The NEIT system aims to improve efficiencies in rapid response through accurate contact tracing, providing data for targeted vaccination strategies and movement restrictions, if needed, through evidence-based epidemic modelling using real population data. Individual identification of horses is essential for providing accurate population data, surveillance, testing in-contact animals, and ultimately proving disease freedom. Economic analysis from Australia's equine influenza outbreak showed that every $1 spent on preparedness saved $63 in response costs. 

Horses can be transferred between the NZCAR and NEIT systems at no extra cost, with movement possible in either direction meaning no duplication of effort from horse owners or those implanting/registering the horse. Opting into the NZCAR service offers peace of mind should the animal become lost. When horses are displaced during floods, storms, or other disasters, microchip scanning enables immediate identification and guardian notification. This reduces owner distress (preventing them from entering dangerous areas to search), speeds reunification, reduces burden on emergency shelters, and facilitates faster access to veterinary care for injured animals. 

The NZCAR also provides emergency responders with crucial population data to allocate resources and understand the scale of animals affected - transforming emergency response from reactive to proactive. 

Background and Collaboration Overview 

The system represents a collaboration between NZEHA (which represents all equine organisations on health and biosecurity matters under the Government Industry Agreement) and CANZ (a charitable trust focused on responsible animal guardianship). While racing horses (Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds) already require microchipping, NEIT extends this protection across all sectors: recreational, sport, breeding, and domestic horses. The research acknowledges that full population coverage will take time and that success depends on stakeholder engagement, particularly with veterinary professionals who will perform microchipping and educate owners about the benefits of both the NZCAR and the NEIT system. 

To read more and see references to figures cited in the paper, you can find the publication here: A national equine identification and traceability system for emergency preparedness and response in New Zealand: New Zealand Veterinary Journal: Vol 0, No 0 

We extend our thanks to Dr Sarah Rosanowski, Hillary Milne, and Dr Patricia Pearce for their collaboration with our Animal Welfare Manager, Dr Nicola McDonald, and Consultant Scientist, Dr Gosia Zobel, along with input from Dr Andrew McFadden. It was a great team effort to bring this literature review to publication. 

Luna still leading the way: New Zealand’s top pet names revealed for 2025

For the seventh year in a row, ‘Luna’ has held onto her crown as New Zealand’s most popular pet name — proving that when it comes to naming our furry companions, Kiwis are still looking to the stars. The data comes from the NZ Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), which houses over 1.4 million animal microchip registrations and recorded more than 110,000 new animal registrations in the past year alone. 

Top 10 Pet Names in New Zealand for 2025 

1. Luna 

2. Milo 

3. Charlie 

4. Daisy 

5. Bella 

6. Coco 

7. Poppy 

8. Nala 

9. Willow 

10. Molly 

When it comes to gender, Milo takes the top spot for male pets, while Luna once again leads the girls. Other popular male names include Charlie, Max, and Leo, while Daisy, Poppy, and Bella remain enduring female favourites. 

Top Male Pet Names 
Milo, Charlie, Max, Leo, Teddy, Buddy, Loki, Simba, Rocky, Alfie 

Top Female Pet Names 
Luna, Daisy, Poppy, Nala, Bella, Willow, Coco, Molly, Ruby, Tilly 

Top Cat Names 
Luna, Milo, Shadow, Willow, Charlie, Nala, Leo, Coco, Simba, Daisy 

Top Dog Names 
Luna, Charlie, Bella, Daisy, Poppy, Milo, Ruby, Coco, Teddy, Nala 

So, with Luna taking the top spot for the seventh year in a row, does that make her the all-time favourite? Not quite. Bella still holds the crown as the most popular pet name overall, with more than 14,000 animals registered. Luna is close behind, though - already reaching 13,000 and still climbing!  

Regional creativity shines through 

While the national top ten shows that Kiwis have their favourites, regional data reveals a fun and creative streak when it comes to naming pets. 

Some of the more distinctive local names appearing in regional ‘top 10 name’ lists (when separated by cats and dogs) include: 

• Batman (Southland & Marlborough)  

• Tiny Tiger (Otago)  

• Cheeto (West Coast)  

• Possum (Marlborough)  

• Tofu (Gisborne)  

• Moose (Otago & Marlborough)  

• Oreo (Northland) 

“While some names never go out of fashion, what we love seeing each year is the imagination and affection that shines through in how people name their animals,” says Sarah, NZCAR Manager. 

“The names people choose can give us a fascinating glimpse into what’s capturing Kiwis’ hearts and minds - from pop culture trends to local icons. It’s also fantastic to see so many pet owners ensuring their animals’ microchips are registered on the NZCAR, helping them to be easily reunited if they’re ever separated.” 

Pop culture continues to inspire 

Pop culture continues to play a strong role in pet naming, with NZCAR data showing a noticeable rise in pets named ‘Ozzy’ following the death of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne earlier this year - 59 in the past year alone. It seems many Kiwi pet owners wanted to honour the “Prince of Darkness” in their own affectionate way. 

Our love of screen and stage also shines through, with names that appear to be inspired by popular characters: 

• 6 Elphaba and 4 Glinda (after Wicked) 

• 77 Bluey, 40 Bingo, 104 Chilli, and 118 Bandit (from Bluey) 

• 95 Maverick, 98 Goose, and 8 Rooster (from Top Gun) 

• 50 Thor and 273 Loki (from the Marvel universe) 

A distinctly Kiwi flavour 

Alongside global influences, an increasing number of pets are being given te reo Māori names - reflecting the growing pride Kiwis feel in our native language and wildlife. 

Among this year’s registrations were: 

• 191 Tui 

• 34 Kiwi 

• 24 Kea 

• 13 Ruru 

• 15 Koru 

• 18 Kōwhai 

• 16 Aroha 

The NZCAR is New Zealand’s largest national microchip database, containing information on over 1.4 million pets of various species. Managed by the registered charity Companion Animals New Zealand, the NZCAR aids in reuniting lost pets with their families by providing veterinary clinics, shelters and other Approved Users across the country with access to pet microchip data. Funds generated by the NZCAR support Companion Animals New Zealand’s welfare, education, and advocacy initiatives. 

You can see the top pet names for regions on our website here: 

Most Popular Pet Names » Companion Animal Register 

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ABOUT CANZ   

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use research, education and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.4 million pets registered. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).    

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From outdoor to indoor living: How do cats (and their owners) cope?

Concern for cat safety and native wildlife conservation has led to growing discussion around keeping cats indoors. But what does this change mean for feline welfare - and for the people who care for them? 

We’re proud to share the results of a Companion Animals New Zealand–led study that explored exactly that question. The research followed sixteen cats and their owners through a four-week transition from outdoor to indoor living, monitoring both cat behaviour and owner experiences to understand how both parties coped with the change. 

What the study found 

Throughout the study, cats wore HeyRex2 activity monitors to track their behaviour, while owners completed surveys and daily diaries about their cats’ wellbeing and their own experiences. 

The findings revealed significant individual variation: approximately two-thirds of cats (10 out of 15) showed minimal behavioural changes or adjusted within the three-week indoor period (first week was baseline outdoor access).

However, about one-third displayed stress-related behaviours such as overgrooming, inappropriate elimination, excessive escape attempts, and signs of anxiety. Notably, the activity monitor data showed no significant changes in sleeping, running, or scratching patterns between the outdoor and indoor phases.

The transition proved challenging for owners, too. Many reported difficulties with constant monitoring to prevent escapes, household management complications (especially during Summer), feelings of guilt, and uncertainty about managing the change. Even among cats that adapted well, some owners found the process ‘somewhat difficult’. When asked whether they would continue keeping their cats indoors after the study, around 40% (6 out of 15) said they intended to do so.

However, six months later, only 23% (3 out of 13 respondents) were still maintaining indoor-only living, with most cats returning to outdoor access within one month of study completion.  

One size doesn’t fit all 

The results highlight that there’s no single right approach when it comes to housing cats. Each cat - and each household - is different. Some felines appear to adjust quickly, while others need more support and time. Importantly, some cats that struggled initially were kept indoors successfully, while some that adapted well ultimately returned outdoors based on owner decisions.  

For those considering transitions, the study suggests that some key factors influence success: 

• Practical guidance to help manage challenges (such as monitoring entrances and managing escape attempts) and maintain positive routines. 

• Environmental enrichment, such as climbing structures, toys, and safe outdoor enclosures, to allow cats to express natural behaviours. 

• Realistic expectations about the challenges involved for both cats and owners 

• Recognition that household circumstances and individual cat needs may create barriers even when the intention to keep cats indoors exists. 

Why this research matters

This project is one of the first in New Zealand to examine the actual process of transitioning outdoor cats indoors - rather than simply comparing indoor and outdoor cats. It provides valuable insights into real-world implementation challenges, highlighting that owner perceptions, housing variables, and household dynamics can pose significant barriers to successful indoor transitioning, even when cats themselves may be adapting.  

The findings can inform future cat management strategies, welfare policies, and public education campaigns, helping ensure any changes made for conservation reasons are also positive for cats and their guardians. 

The study also builds on CANZ’s previous research into how New Zealanders view outdoor access for cats, helping us better understand both attitudes and behaviours around responsible cat ownership. 

A collective effort 

We extend our sincere thanks to: 

• Dr Susan Hazel and Dr Gosia Zobel for leading the study, with valued contributions from Professor Nat Waran and Dr Renee Railton during their time at CANZ. 

• Julia Henning for her collaboration and input in developing the project. 

• The cats and their guardians who took part — your involvement made this research possible. 

• HeyRex, for supporting behavioural data collection and loaning half of the monitoring devices. 

• And our funders — Companion Animals New Zealand, Healthy Pets New Zealand, and the University of Adelaide — for their generous support. 

It truly takes a village to make meaningful welfare research happen. 

Read the full paper here free for the next month: Who Let the Cats in? Evaluation of the Transitioning of Cats to Indoor Life by Renee Railton, Julia Henning, Rina Hannaford, Gosia Zobel, Natalie Waran, Susan Hazel :: SSRN  

A new tool for Equine Welfare and Biosecurity in New Zealand

At Companion Animals New Zealand, we’re committed to helping improve the lives of animals across Aotearoa. That’s why we’re proud to support a new initiative just launched, which will help strengthen biosecurity and welfare protections for horses and other equids in New Zealand. 

Introducing NEIT 

The National Equine Identification and Traceability (NEIT) system is a new, independently governed initiative led by the New Zealand Equine Health Association (NZEHA). 

NEIT's core purpose is to enhance New Zealand’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to outbreaks of equine disease, helping protect horse welfare and reduce the cost and scale of potential responses. 

NEIT is governed by NZEHA and its data is managed in line with biosecurity objectives, including sharing relevant information with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) during a disease response.  

The system is designed for any member of the equid family - including horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules - and represents an important step forward for equine welfare and biosecurity in Aotearoa. 

You can learn more at www.neit.org.nz. 

How is Companion Animals NZ Involved? 

While NEIT and the information on it are entirely governed separately by NZEHA, the back-end system has been built using the same trusted software that supports the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR). 

This allows for a seamless experience for horse owners who may already be using NZCAR to register microchipped animals - providing a one-click option to opt in to NEIT when registering an equine.  

NZCAR Manager Sarah Clements says the technology behind the NZCAR was a natural fit to support the needs of the NEIT system.  

“When NZEHA approached us to help technically support the development of NEIT, it was a natural step” says Ms Clements. “While the system front-end is separate from NZCAR, we saw the value in using our platform to help them build something that will strengthen equine welfare nationwide.” 

“The goal is to reduce duplication, lower costs, and make it easier for guardians to share information securely between the two systems if they choose to.” 

While NZCAR focuses on companion animal identification and reunification, NEIT is a biosecurity tool designed to safeguard equine health across the country.  By lending our CANZ expertise in microchip databases and registration systems, we’re helping build tools that protect all animals - whether they walk on four paws or four hooves. 

CANZ appoints Pete Monk as first CEO

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is delighted to announce the appointment of Pete Monk as its first Chief Executive Officer. Pete will officially begin in the role on 10 November 2025. 

Companion Animals New Zealand is a national charity focused on positive companion animal welfare. Through education, research, advocacy, and the operation of the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), CANZ works to raise the status of animals in Aotearoa and support people to give their pets a good life.  

Pete brings extensive leadership experience from his career in marketing, communications, and strategic management.

He previously served as General Manager of Fly Buys, where he helped grow one of New Zealand’s most recognised loyalty programmes through strong partnerships and innovative customer initiatives. More recently, Pete has held governance and leadership roles across conservation, tourism marketing, and community organisations, including as a trustee for Zealandia (Karori Sanctuary Trust).

He has also had longstanding involvement with the renowned winemakers Ata Rangi in Martinborough and runs his own photography business. 

While Pete’s professional background is in marketing and communications, he can’t wait to immerse himself in the world of animal welfare.  

“I’m excited to join CANZ at such a pivotal moment. The organisation already has a strong reputation for bringing together diverse stakeholders to strengthen welfare outcomes,” Pete says. “I look forward to drawing on the knowledge and passion of the CANZ team as we continue building a better future for New Zealand’s companion animals and their guardians.” 

Pete and his dog, Indy.

CANZ Board Chair Steven Thompson says Pete is the right leader to guide the organisation through its next phase. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Pete as our first CEO. He brings the perfect mix of leadership, commercial insight, and strategic vision to take CANZ forward. Pete’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter as we embed some strategic changes and strengthen our focus on positive welfare outcomes in New Zealand. We’re confident his experience and energy will help CANZ make an even greater impact.” 

Pete will work closely with the senior management team to implement organisational changes and help drive CANZ’s evolving strategy, with a strong emphasis on the NZCAR, education, and community impact. By connecting with communities, industry, government, and welfare organisations, CANZ plays a unique role as a trusted hub for insights and collaboration. 

'Misbehaviour or Misunderstood?' - 2025 Webinar Series Recap

We thoroughly enjoyed the engagement from everyone who joined us for this year’s Misbehaviour or Misunderstood - Season 2 webinar series. Over the course of five sessions, we were fortunate to host both local and international experts, share recorded interviews with four overseas speakers, and have local panelists on hand for discussions on the night. None of this would have been possible without the enthusiasm of our audience and the generosity of your donations - thank you! 

In this article, we revisit some of the key insights from the five webinars and take the opportunity to answer a number of the questions we couldn’t get to during the live sessions. 

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Click on the below webinar headers to open the summaries:

• Webinar 1: Managing Recall Gone Rogue

  Maria Alomajan, a certified dog behaviour consultant, trainer, author, and winner of the 2025 Companion Animal NZ Māimoa Award, spoke about one of the most common challenges dog owners face: recall. In theory, a perfect recall means a dog immediately turns and runs back to its handler the moment it’s called. In practice, though, distractions are everywhere, and most owners have experienced the frustration of those moments, when their dog simply won’t come back. 

  Maria explained that puppies are born with a natural tendency to return to their caregiver, but this only lasts until around 14 weeks of age. After that, recall is no longer instinctive - it has to be carefully taught and reinforced. Things become especially tricky during adolescence, which can last anywhere from six to twenty-four months. During this period, hormonal surges and changes in the brain make dogs more impulsive, forgetful, and easily distracted. They seek novelty, test boundaries, and often seem to “forget” their training overnight. The emotional part of the brain dominates, which means recall can feel unreliable, no matter how much effort owners put in. 

  Another key reason recall often fails is that the world itself is rewarding. Dogs love chasing after other dogs, investigating food scraps, splashing in puddles, or greeting people. All of these things compete directly with an owner’s call. Maria stressed that it’s not enough to call the dog and hope for the best - owners need to make sure that coming back is worth it. Every successful recall should be rewarded, ideally with something the dog finds exciting and irresistible… i.e. treats or toys. 

  Training recall, Maria explained, starts with being very clear about what “coming back” looks like. For some dogs, it might mean touching the owner’s hand; for others, it could mean sitting directly in front. Once that definition is set, the next step is consistency: using the same cue every time, being enthusiastic, and rewarding generously!  

  Dogs learn best in short, fun sessions that begin in quiet places before moving into more distracting environments. Tools like whistles can cut through noise and act as emergency cues, while long lines and harnesses give dogs freedom to explore safely as they practise. For added peace of mind, technology such as GPS trackers can help owners feel secure as they give their dogs more independence. 

  Maria emphasised that recall training should be joyful, not stressful. Owners need to be more exciting than the environment - sometimes this means using toys, favourite treats, or even unusual rewards like paper towels or squeaky noises. It also means being mindful of factors like stress, fatigue, pain, or fear, which can affect how a dog responds.  

  Practised daily and reinforced consistently, recall becomes not only a reliable behaviour but also a way of strengthening the bond between dog and owner. 

  One question we didn’t get to on the night was how to manage challenging behaviours in dogs - such as resource guarding, aggression, or excessive barking - particularly in highly social or stimulating environments.

  Challenging behaviours such as resource guarding, aggression, or excessive barking often occur because a dog feels stressed, overstimulated, or is trying to protect something they value, whether that’s their human, food, or toys. In highly social or stimulating environments, these behaviours can be amplified simply because the dog is processing a lot at once. 

  Positive reinforcement training helps by rewarding calm, alternative behaviours instead of punishing the unwanted behaviour. As Debbie Jacobs says in Webinar 5, focus on the behaviour you want to see rather than the undesired behaviour. Managing triggers, teaching clear alternative behaviours, and consistently rewarding desired actions helps dogs feel safe, confident, and less likely to resort to guarding, aggression, or excessive barking. We recommend seeking guidance from one of our CANZ-accredited professionals to ensure your approach is safe and effective.  

  Another question was around a dog with a strong food drive. Their dog follows cues reliably when offered a treat, but sometimes ignores them if no treat is visible, or throws a tantrum if they follow a cue and don’t get a reward. They wanted to know the best way to manage this behaviour.

  Some dogs may only respond reliably when a visible reward is present. This typically occurs when training relies too heavily on constant food rewards or fails to build generalisation across different contexts. Intermittent reinforcement, rewarding the desired behaviour unpredictably rather than every time, helps dogs maintain reliable responses even when a treat isn't immediately visible. Pairing food rewards with secondary reinforcers like praise or a favourite toy builds a broader reinforcement foundation and reduces dependency on treats alone. 

  Gradually fading visible food cues while teaching dogs to offer behaviours proactively, combined with training across varied environments and situations, helps build independence and intrinsic motivation. The goal is to use a dog's strong food drive strategically during training, then transition to more variable reinforcement schedules that maintain behaviour without creating dependency. For guidance on implementing these training strategies effectively, look for a CANZ-accredited professional near you. 

• Webinar 2: Optimising Family Life with Kids and Dogs

  Angela Fletcher, a veterinary nurse, elite-level Fear Free trainer, Delta Level 4 cert holder, IAABC-ADT and CANZ Accredited Animal Training Instructor, presented on how to best bring a new baby into the household – which creates big changes, not only for the parents but also for their pets. For dogs, the arrival of a baby can mean new sounds, smells, routines, and restrictions. And it helps to prepare in advance, to reduce stress and ensure both child and dog can live together safely and happily. This might include adjusting walking times, feeding schedules, or the spaces your dog can use in the house. Gradual change prevents the dog from associating restrictions directly with the baby. 

  Babies bring with them a whole range of novel experiences - crying, giggling, squealing, and the constant buzz of toys. Playing recordings of baby noises at low volume, then gradually increasing, helps dogs become accustomed. Similarly, allow your dog to explore baby furniture and prams before they are in daily use. Reward calm behaviour so the dog learns these new additions are nothing to fear. 

  Both dog and baby need their own safe zones. Dogs should have access to a comfortable retreat, a bed or crate in a quiet area, where they are never disturbed. This helps prevent frustration or defensive behaviour. At the same time, establish clear boundaries about which areas will be baby-only spaces. Consistency is essential. 

  Basic manners become even more important once a baby arrives. Reliable skills such as “sit” and “stay”, and walking calmly on a lead make everyday life easier. Practise these skills in distracting environments to ensure your dog can manage excitement. Introducing baby-related routines, such as waiting calmly while you carry something, is also valuable. 

  When baby comes home, the first meeting should be calm and controlled. The dog should be on lead, with a trusted adult managing the interaction. Allow the dog to sniff from a comfortable distance, rewarding relaxed behaviour. Over time, short, positive exposures build trust and familiarity. 

  Preparation doesn’t stop once the baby is home. As children grow, new stages bring fresh challenges: crawling, grabbing, running. Close supervision is always required, and children should be taught respectful handling skills from an early age. Positive reinforcement for the dog, combined with education for the child, keeps interactions safe. 

  By planning ahead, families can avoid many of the common problems that arise when dogs feel displaced, anxious, or confused by a baby’s arrival. Preparation fosters confidence in the dog, reduces stress for parents, and lays the foundation for a safe, positive bond between child and pet. 

  Angela provided answers to all the questions during the session 

• Webinar 3: Older Pets: Understanding New Habits and Cognitive Quirks

  Dr Jess is an accredited veterinary behaviourist and the Founder and Director of Kiwi Vet Behaviour, a team of qualified vets and trainers providing compassionate, science-based services. In this webinar, Jess explored the challenges and considerations of caring for aging pets, focusing on both physical and cognitive changes in dogs and cats.  

  Aging in pets involves complex biological, physical, and psychological shifts, similar to those seen in humans, but often overlooked in companion animals. Lifespan varies by species and breed, with smaller dogs typically living longer than larger breeds, and cats frequently reaching their late teens with appropriate care. 

  Physical changes in older pets can include arthritis, dental disease, hormonal imbalances, lumps, and reduced mobility. Chronic pain from these conditions can significantly affect mood, behaviour, and overall wellbeing, often presenting subtly before obvious signs emerge. Early intervention, including regular veterinary check-ups, blood tests, dental care, and grooming, is crucial for maintaining quality of life. Environmental modifications, such as ramps, non-slip surfaces, accessible resting areas, and user-friendly litter trays, can help pets navigate their world comfortably. 

  Aging also brings psychological and cognitive changes. Older pets may experience anxiety, altered social interactions, depression, changes in sleep patterns, reduced sensory perception, and cognitive decline - sometimes referred to as canine or feline dementia. Signs of cognitive dysfunction can include disorientation, memory loss, inappropriate toileting, and changes in activity levels. Accurate diagnosis requires distinguishing these changes from underlying medical conditions. 

  Management strategies for cognitive decline are multifactorial. Nutrition is central: specialised diets, rich in omega fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, and other nutrients, support brain health. While some medications may offer limited benefits, no single drug can reverse cognitive decline, making a holistic approach essential. 

  Owner involvement and environmental enrichment play a vital role. Cognitive stimulation through puzzle toys, scent-based games, problem-solving activities, and gentle training exercises helps maintain mental sharpness. Exercise, even in shorter or modified forms, supports both physical and cognitive health. Social interaction, grooming, and massage provide comfort, mental engagement, and relief from aches and stiffness. 

  Jess emphasised the importance of proactive, contextualized care - balancing veterinary treatment, environmental support, cognitive enrichment, and the pet’s physical needs with the guardian’s resources and capabilities. Even in the face of aging or cognitive decline, pets can continue to live engaging, fulfilling lives with thoughtful care. 

  The overarching message of the webinar was clear: aging does not mean life stops being good for pets. With early recognition, targeted support, and active engagement, senior dogs and cats can maintain comfort, function, and a strong bond with their human companions. 

  An unanswered question on the night was about how we can support pets with cognitive decline to feel safe, comfortable, and engaged, especially when we aren’t at home? 

  Supporting pets with cognitive decline when you're not home involves creating a predictable, secure environment that accommodates their changing needs. Keep lighting consistent and furniture arrangements unchanged to reduce confusion, while providing non-slip surfaces and clear pathways for safe navigation. Comfort measures like familiar scents from your clothing, pheromone diffusers, and soft background music can help reduce anxiety.  

  For gentle mental engagement, try puzzle feeders or lick mats, and rotate familiar toys to maintain interest without overwhelming them. Most importantly, maintain calm, consistent routines around departures and returns, ensure easy access to essentials like food and water, and consider remote check-ins through pet cameras or trusted neighbours.  

  Another question was about aging pets with multiple health concerns, such as cognitive decline and physical conditions like arthritis, how to best manage their diet to support both mental and physical wellbeing? 

  The good news is that many nutritional strategies can support both cognitive decline and joint health at the same time. However, it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to evaluate prescription diets that target both conditions and to determine whether additional supplements might be needed to complement the base diet. Aging pets often have other health issues that can make certain diets unsuitable, so veterinary guidance is essential. 

  Diets that benefit both arthritis and cognitive function typically include Omega-3 fatty acids (especially EPA and DHA), antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, and high-quality, easily digestible protein to maintain muscle mass and provide essential amino acids. 

  Any dietary changes should be introduced carefully, with close monitoring of your pet’s response. Adjustments may be needed to ensure appropriate calorie intake and to maintain ideal body weight. 

• Webinar 4: Reading Animal Emotions

  This webinar explored animal emotions and included the latest research in the field of dog, cat and horse emotional expressions. It featured recorded interviews with three international experts and we welcomed panelist Dr Gosia Zobel to the webinar to share insights from a researcher’s point of view.  

  Dog Emotions 
  Dr. Holly Molinaro from Arizona State University discussed dog emotions, body language, and human perception, emphasising that understanding animal emotions is more complex than simply mapping human feelings onto animal behaviours. She outlined that there are two main theories of emotion: the basic/discrete theory, which proposes universal, evolutionarily based emotions, and the constructed theory, which views emotions as shaped by context, culture, and individual experience. While most animal research follows the basic theory, Holly highlighted the importance of bottom-up approaches that consider dogs’ unique emotional capacities. 

  Studies show that human perception of dog emotions is highly context-dependent. The same dog behaviour may be interpreted differently based on the observer’s mood, experience, or environmental cues. Participants often rely heavily on facial cues and risk anthropomorphizing. Holly advised dog owners to observe their own dog closely, track individual behaviours, and develop a personalised understanding of emotional cues. Gosia noted that similar principles apply across species, where physical responses - such as ear, eye, or body movements in chickens, horses, and cows - can reveal emotional states without projecting human emotions. 

  Horse Emotions 
  Dr. Gabriel Lencioni from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, presented research on the objective assessment of horse emotions and pain, combining AI, computer programming, and behavioural knowledge. His team has achieved 75.8% accuracy in distinguishing absent, moderate, and present pain, and 88.3% accuracy in identifying whether a horse is in pain. These methods complement traditional tools like the Grimace Scale, which scores facial action units to detect subtle pain cues and has been adapted across species. 

  Gabriel emphasised the core affect concept, which classifies emotions by valence (positive vs negative) and arousal (energy level). Assessing emotions in real-life and competition settings is challenging due to context and human interaction, but AI can help standardise observations, reduce subjective variability, and identify patterns not previously recognised. 

  Practical applications include monitoring welfare during training and competitions, enhancing human-horse interactions, and supporting ethical handling practices. By integrating AI with expert knowledge, researchers aim to develop tools that objectively assess horse emotions, improve welfare, and inform decision-making in equestrian contexts. 

  Cat emotions 

  Dr. Britt Florkiewicz, a comparative and evolutionary psychologist from Lyon College, Arkansas, shared fascinating insights into how cats use facial expressions to communicate their emotions and navigate social interactions. Cats, like many other mammals, combine movements of their ears, eyes, whiskers, nose, and mouth to convey a wide range of feelings. These expressions are not only important for interacting with other cats but also for communicating with humans. 

  Defensive expressions toward humans often involve pinned-back ears, dilated pupils, and an open mouth, sometimes accompanied by hissing. When interacting with other cats, subtle differences appear. For instance, a cat anticipating conflict may constrict its pupils, pin its ears back, and lick its lips, signalling readiness to defend itself. In contrast, friendly interactions are characterised by slow blinking, forward-facing ears and whiskers, and partially or fully closed eyes - signs of trust and a willingness to engage socially. 

  Britt emphasised that context matters: cats express themselves differently with humans than with other cats, and understanding these nuances can help owners encourage positive interactions and intervene before conflicts escalate. She also highlighted that cats are capable of at least 276 distinct facial expressions, with likely more yet to be documented. Interestingly, cats can engage in rapid facial mimicry, copying positive expressions from humans or other cats to strengthen social bonds and better predict behaviour. 

  The research shows that cats have a rich and nuanced repertoire of facial expressions. By learning to read these cues, humans can better understand what their cats are feeling, foster positive interactions, and respond appropriately to signs of stress or aggression. 

  All questions were answered during the webinar session. 

• Webinar 5: Effective Strategies for Working with Fearful, Shy, or Anxious Dogs

  Debbie Jacobs is from Vermont, U.S. and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Registered Behavior Technician, accredited by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board, and author of A Guide To Living With And Training A Fearful Dog. As our final speaker in the series Debbie explored the complexities of fear and anxiety in dogs, emphasizing that these behaviours are often misunderstood. Debbie clarified that dogs typically display fear or aggression to communicate “leave me alone,” and that responding appropriately - acknowledging the dog’s signals without escalating the situation - helps build effective communication and trust. 

  Her presentation highlighted practical strategies for managing challenging behaviours, including aggression between dogs, house training, and handling equipment like harnesses or jackets. Debbie emphasised small, structured training sessions that use positive reinforcement, shaping behaviours incrementally, and avoiding punishment. She also explained common fears, such as strangers, separation, noise, and car rides, and how counter-conditioning and skill-building can gradually change a dog’s emotional response to triggers. 

  Special attention was given to separation anxiety, which Debbie described as a mental health concern rather than a result of poor ownership. Treatment focuses on preventing panic, creating positive environments, and using gradual training strategies, sometimes alongside medication, to achieve lasting results. Throughout the webinar, Debbie stressed the importance of understanding the function of a dog’s behaviour, reinforcing appropriate responses, and using patient, thoughtful approaches to improve the dog’s emotional wellbeing. 

  We were pleased to have Dr Jess Beer on the panel for Webinar 5, and every question submitted was answered. 

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If you have a moment, please consider making a donation to support more webinars and our ongoing animal welfare work: Donate here.  

Your support helps us continue creating informative and educational webinars for our NZ community of pet lovers. 

To our speakers, participants and supporters - Thank you for helping us make this possible! 

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 The answers provided to questions addressed in this article are written by the CANZ Welfare Team and do not represent the personal opinions of the speakers. Any specific behavioural concerns should be addressed by a qualified professional, such as a CANZ-accredited professional or a veterinarian. 

For more info on finding a CANZ-accredited professional near you, go to:  

CANZ Accreditation — Companion Animals New Zealand