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. 

Professor Nat Waran leaving CANZ

Companion Animals New Zealand acknowledges the departure of Professor Nat Waran OBE, whose expertise, leadership, and commitment have made a valued contribution to advancing companion animal welfare through her involvement with our organisation. 

 Professor Waran has served CANZ in two significant roles – first as Chair of the Board, providing governance and strategic guidance, and more recently as Director of the A Good Life for Animals Centre. During her tenure, she has spearheaded transformative work in research, education, human behaviour change, and advocacy, strengthening the organisation’s ability to support positive welfare outcomes for companion animals. This leadership has not only shaped thinking in New Zealand but also contributed to the global animal welfare community. 

Professor Waran will now be focusing on her animal welfare consultancy work, where her internationally recognised expertise in welfare science, education, and policy will continue to make an impact across the wider sector. Her recent recognition with an OBE for her contribution to international animal welfare – particularly equine welfare, research, and education – reflects the high regard in which her work is held. 

Companion Animals New Zealand extends our gratitude to Professor Waran for her service and contributions. Nat’s vision and expertise have set a remarkable benchmark, providing the platform from which we are now poised to launch the next chapter of CANZ’s work. We wish her every success in her future endeavours. 

Celebrating Our June 2025 Te Tohu Maimoa Winners

This week is National Volunteer Week – a time to celebrate, support, and encourage the incredible contributions of volunteers in our communities. It’s also the perfect moment to announce our June Te Tohu Maimoa award winners! While recipients don’t have to be volunteers, many are – and their efforts reflect the dedication we see from people across Aotearoa who give their time and energy to improving the lives of animals.

Twice a year, Companion Animals New Zealand recognises outstanding individuals through Te Tohu Maimoa. These awards highlight those who go above and beyond to improve the lives of companion animals in Aotearoa. Maimoa, as a verb means 'to cherish or care for' and as a noun means 'companion animal'. Te Tohu is te reo for 'award'.  

Our June 2025 recipients have demonstrated exceptional commitment to animal welfare through education, community service, and compassionate care. 

Maria Alomajan (Auckland) – Owner, Canine by Nature 
Awarded for: Commitment to education and canine behaviour training 

Maria Alomajan has shown unwavering dedication to improving canine welfare through education - locally and globally. As the owner of Canine by Nature, Maria integrates ethical, evidence-based behaviour training into every aspect of her work. Her belief in agency for all animals, force-free approaches, and empathetic dialogue drives her mission to empower both pets and people. 

Her impact spans continents. A two-part lecture series for vet nurses through NZVNA and Vet Education reached over 1,300 participants worldwide, helping professionals better support puppies and their guardians. Maria also provides expert behavioural content for PD Insurance and DOC’s Lead the Way programme - creating practical, accessible media that raises awareness of dog behaviour and care. 

Maria continues to mentor others in the field, offering guidance and emotional support within the behaviour community. Her work is a powerful example of how education can uplift both animal welfare standards and the people who care for our pets. 

Rukmini (Mini) (Manawatū) – Owner, Māmā Mini's
Awarded for: Tireless community rescue and support work 

Known affectionately as "Mini", Rukmini is a tireless force for good in the Manawatū animal welfare community. Whether responding to calls about found animals, rescuing pets or offering practical support to those struggling to care for their companions, Mini is always ready to help. 

She works closely with local services offering vital care for abused and neglected animals. Her initiatives – such as food drives for pet guardians in need and low-cost microchipping events – break down barriers to responsible pet care and provide dignity to both pets and people. 

Mini’s community describes her as strong, caring, generous – and a true rescue warrior. 

Charlotte Koppes (Bromley, South Island) – DogWatch 
Awarded for: Dedication to enhancing foster environments and mentorship 

At DogWatch in Christchurch, Charlotte Koppes has transformed foster care through innovation, compassion, and tireless mentorship. Her work has directly improved neonatal care, in-shelter microchipping practices, and outcomes for foster placements. 

Charlotte goes out of her way to support new foster carers – offering one-on-one guidance and emotional support to ensure each placement succeeds. Her training and encouragement have helped build a strong, resilient foster network that provides vulnerable animals with the best start in life. 

Charlotte uplifts those around her, while her thoughtful, hands-on support reflects deep respect and compassion. From shelter innovation to nurturing community, Charlotte’s impact is both measurable and deeply felt. 

Congratulations to all of our June 2025 Te Tohu Maimoa recipients. 

“It’s an honour to celebrate the mahi of Maria, Mini, and Charlotte – three remarkable individuals whose compassion and commitment embody the very essence of Te Tohu Maimoa. Their work reminds us that real change happens when care, knowledge and community come together. We’re so grateful for the difference you’re making for animals and people alike – ngā mihi nui for all that you do.”

— Nic McDonald, Companion Animals New Zealand

To learn more about the awards and how to nominate someone, visit: https://www.companionanimals.nz/maimoa

It’s tax credit time – donate to the animals and enjoy a tax credit. Win win!

As the end of the tax year approaches in New Zealand (31 March), it’s the perfect time to think about making a donation! Not only will you be supporting a great cause, but you’ll also get to take advantage of a tax credit.  

Let’s chat about how this all works and why you should consider donating now. 

Why donate before the tax year ends? 

1. Get your tax credit: In New Zealand, for every dollar you donate, you can claim back 33.33% as a tax credit. This means that if you donate $100, you could potentially get $33.33 back when you file your taxes.  

1. Claim for previous years: Did you know you can also claim for donations made in the last four years if you haven’t done so already? So, if you’ve been generous in the past, now’s the time to gather those receipts. 

1. Do good and feel great: Donating not only helps the cause you care about but also makes you feel good knowing you’re making a difference in your community. Plus, you’ll have that welcome tax credit to look forward to.  

So - as we get closer to the end of the tax year on 31 March, now is the time to think about the donations that you have made during the year and to make sure you take advantage of the tax credits available to you.  

The general criteria for claiming a donation tax credit are: 

• The recipient must be an approved donee organisation (Companion Animals NZ is an approved organisation); 

• The cash donation must be $5 or more;  

• A signed and dated receipt from the charity must be held and include certain information (if you have lost yours then please email us); and 

• The total amount of donation tax credits claimed cannot exceed your taxable income for the relevant year.  

Visit the IRD website for more information here: Tax credits for donations 

Info you’ll need from us:

• Receipts for your donations - which you’ll receive automatically but if you’ve misplaced yours, contact fundraising@companionanimals.nz

• The name of our charity: Companion Animals New Zealand

• Our Charity Registration Number: CC27849

• Our IRD number: 134-044-284

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And voilà! You’re all done! If you choose to regift your credit back to Companion Animals New Zealand, we’d be incredibly grateful for your generosity! 

Any questions please feel free to contact fundraising@companionanimals.nz 

2025: The year technology unlocks the secrets of animal emotions?

Imagine having a simple, science-based tool to assess your pet’s emotional state in real time? This technology could be on the horizon and we’re excited to see what 2025 brings in this space. 

Animals communicate their emotions in many ways—through their behaviour, body posture, and even facial expressions. But what if technology could help us understand them better? 

Humans rely heavily on facial expressions to convey emotions, and we’re naturally attuned to recognising them from birth. It’s no surprise that we often look to an animal’s face to gauge how it’s feeling. With the right tools, humans could more accurately interpret an animal's emotional state, improving both animal and human welfare. 

A new era in animal emotion research 

Traditional methods for studying animal emotions often involve invasive techniques, like measuring blood parameters, or time-intensive behavioural analysis. However, advancements in technology borrowed from human facial expression studies are changing the game. 

Researchers are now using cameras and smart software to analyse subtle facial changes in animals — like eye shape, ear movement, or nostril flare — when they experience different emotions. This non-invasive method provides a safer, more efficient way to assess how animals feel. It also opens the door for pet owners to better understand emotions like fear, happiness, or sadness in their furry, feathered, or scaled companions. 

For these tools to truly benefit animal welfare, they must be backed by rigorous scientific validation. Researchers need to confirm that the facial movements detected are directly linked to emotional states. While tools for interpreting negative emotions like pain and aggression have been developed for species such as rats, mice, sheep, and horses, creating tools for positive emotions—or for less expressive species like chickens—remains a challenge. 

Exciting advances in research 

At Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ), our ‘A Good Life for Animals’ research team is collaborating with international experts to explore the potential of using behavioural and facial expression for improving welfare outcomes. For example, in an exciting joint project with Lyon College in Arkansas, USA, Dr. Britt Florkiewicz, undergraduate student researcher Levi Neal and Dr. Gosia Zobel (CANZ) are leading a study to delve into the mysterious world of cat facial expressions.  We’re investigating feline facial expressions and how they’re interpreted – all 270 of them! 

This study also seeks to explore whether New Zealanders can accurately predict the outcomes of interactions between cats by interpreting their facial expressions, what features people use to assist their assessment, and whether there are specific human characteristics—such as a person’s age, occupation, or previous experience with cats—that affect their accuracy.  

CANZ is also working with a Brazilian animal welfare research group led by Professor Adroaldo Zanella at the University of Sao Paolo to investigate use of advancements in AI to develop improved ability to recognise signs of positive and negative emotions in horses when they are being ridden.  The three year PhD project being carried out by student and veterinarian Gabriel Lencioni, will assess the use of deep learning to understand equine emotions and so far the results are very promising.  

Professor Nat Waran, Director of A Good Life for Animals Centre, adds why CANZ is so interested in these advancements:  

“Whilst animal owners may feel that they can already read their animal’s expression or mood, without the robust science-based approach that underpins the development of precision technology such as the facial recognition software, there is always a risk that an animal owner could misread an animal’s intent and as such put themselves, the animal or a third party in a compromised situation. 

“The opportunity to make use of technological solutions to support improvements in animal welfare is extremely exciting.”

— Professor Nat Waran

The future: improved human- animal communication and connection? 

Imagine having a simple, science-based tool to assess your pet’s emotional state in real time. This technology could enhance the bond between humans and animals, improve welfare, and even prevent misunderstandings that could lead to unsafe situations. 

While many pet owners feel they already understand their animals, being able to use research-based tools offers a level of precision that can reduce the risk of misinterpreting an animal's mood or intentions. As technology advances, we’re moving closer to a future where animal emotions will be far more accessible to us providing a bridge to deeper human-animal connection and improved care. 

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A Good life for all horses – national horse day

A Global Call for Positive Welfare for All Equids 

The newly published Good Welfare for Equids white paper sets a high bar for improving the welfare of horses, donkeys, and their hybrids (known collectively as ‘equids’). While primarily aimed at influencing European Union legislation, the framework offers insights and recommendations that resonate globally.  

The report underscores the importance of treating equids as sentient beings, capable of experiencing emotions like joy, contentment, and pain, and calls for ensuring their wellbeing regardless of their role—be it for sport, leisure, work, or companionship. 

The report emphasises that: 

• Equids have complex social, mental, and physical needs that must be met for them to thrive. 

• A good quality of life involves more than minimising stress or fear; it requires actively fostering positive experiences such as pleasure and contentment. 

• Good care, nutrition, social interaction, and ethical exercise not only benefit the animals but also strengthen the bond between equids and humans. 

To achieve this, the paper outlines the Five Provisions framework for equid welfare: 

1. Good nutrition 

1. A good physical environment 

1. Good health 

1. Positive social and behavioral interactions 

1. Positive mental experiences 

It also highlights the risks associated with various sectors where equids are involved, from production and sports to rescue and retirement, and advocates for robust identification and traceability systems to ensure their protection. 

Professor Nat Waran, one of the contributors to this report and Director of ‘A Good Life Center’ at Companion Animals NZ, emphasises the ethical responsibility to promote equid welfare, fostering positive outcomes for animals and the humans who depend on them. 

"Horses, donkeys, and mules are sentient beings who feel joy, fear, and pain, just as we do. This paper is a vital step toward recognising equids as sentient beings with unique physical, mental, and emotional needs, addressing the gaps and providing actionable recommendations to ensure equids live a "Good Life." By focusing on their quality of life, not just minimising harm, but fostering positive experiences, we can set a global standard for equid welfare that benefits both the animals and the people who both care for them and rely on them." - Professor Nat Waran 

This comprehensive framework challenges stakeholders worldwide to prioritise the welfare of equids, ensuring they live fulfilling lives. For more details, you can read the full white paper here: 

Te Tohu Maimoa winners for November 2024

Te Tohu Maimoa recognises the contribution of people involved in the well-being of Companion Animals in New Zealand. The awards are held twice a year, presented by Companion Animals NZ, and nominations should focus on achievements in the previous 6 months.

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We are proud to announce the November 2024 Te Tohu Maimoa winners…

Rachael Maher 

Founder of Paws4Life 

Rachael Maher has been running Paws4Life for over a decade, dedicating herself to rescuing and caring for abandoned, injured, and stray cats and kittens. Her shelter is constantly full, reflecting her tireless 24/7 commitment to meeting the community's needs. Beyond her rescue work, Rachael has participated in meetings with the SPCA and Hamilton City Council, advocating for cat desexing and the humane treatment of strays. The Paws4Life Facebook page offers a glimpse into the continuous influx of strays ready for adoption, showcasing the incredible impact of her efforts. 

Annette Buckley 

Founder of Feline Fix 

Annette Buckley’s work in animal welfare reaches far and wide. With a focus on controlling the stray cat population, she has helped desex over 760 cats since Feline Fix was formed. Her work includes running impactful Facebook campaigns and providing crucial support for urgent medical treatments, reflecting her dedication to reducing unwanted litters and improving the lives of vulnerable animals. 

Zoey Jackson 

Education and Engagement Officer, Waikato Pound Pups (WDC) 

Zoey Jackson’s dedication to dog welfare shines through her work with Waikato Pound Pups. From her involvement with the ‘Take the Lead, Don’t Let Them Breed’ campaign to hands-on education in local schools, Zoey actively champions responsible pet ownership. Her ‘Dirty Dog Challenge’ and ‘Pound Pups Pool Parties’ fundraisers are not only fun but also crucial in supporting desexing and rehoming initiatives. With an extensive online community of over 26,000 followers, Zoey’s creative and passionate approach makes her a beloved advocate for dog welfare in the Waikato community. 

Sarah Christie 

Founder of Pet Whisperer Rescue 

Sarah Christie, founder of Pet Whisperer Rescue, has dedicated herself to supporting stray and lost cats in Auckland through initiatives such as colony feeding, trap-neuter-return programmes, and rehoming rehabilitated strays. Her collaboration with local businesses and the provision of desexing vouchers have made responsible pet ownership more accessible. Sarah’s tireless advocacy continues to make a meaningful impact on Auckland’s rescue efforts and the lives of countless cats. 

“The quality of the nominations in this round were amazing! It was certainly hard to come up with a shortlist for our judging panel as there were so many passionate individuals doing great things for the animals!

A big congratulations to our November winners who very much deserve this recognition and we hope know how appreciated their contributions are.”

— Nic McDonald, Animal Welfare Operations Officer

Horse welfare research in the spotlight

International research delving into horse welfare topics has been brought to New Zealand, as researchers from Companion Animals New Zealand collaborate with international institutions on hot topics such as the use of horses in sport and identifying horse emotions. 

Companion Animals New Zealand is committed to promoting a Good Life for Animals. We invest in research and behaviour change initiatives to improve understanding of animal emotions and share evidence-based knowledge with pet owners and those caring for animals. 

To achieve this, the charity carries out its own research, as well as collaborating with a number of international animal welfare research teams. 

Professor Nat Waran, Director for A Good Life for Animals Centre at Companion Animals NZ, is an internationally recognised animal behaviour and welfare scientist and her work towards improving equine welfare has been extensive. She says working with a global network of animal welfare scientists is vital because it fosters an interchange of diverse perspectives and international comparisons, helping us stay at the forefront of animal welfare advancements and knowledge here in New Zealand.  

“International research collaborations are important for assisting with Companion Animals NZ’s work because they allow us to tap into global expertise and cutting-edge knowledge. By working with world-leading researchers, we can bring valuable insights back to New Zealand and apply them through a local lens, ultimately improving the welfare of our animals here at home.”

— Professor Nat Waran

Horses in sport 

Companion Animal’s New Zealand’s collaboration on equine welfare research projects involves researchers from various countries including; Sweden, UK, Denmark, Brazil and Australia. One of these is a study considering public opinion regarding the use of horses in sport.  It asks about what equestrian events people have watched and/or attended.

It’s being conducted by Pamela Spisak, a MSc Equine Science student at The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh.  Pamela is co-supervised Professor Nat Waran, (the A Good Life for Animals Director for Companion Animals New NZ). Information from the work will help add to our understanding of the current level of interest and opinions regarding horse use in sport, of both the general public and those involved in the horse world. CANZ looks forward to reporting on the results once the student has completed the work. 

 This survey is open until 1 November: Public Opinion of Equestrian Sport (jisc.ac.uk)  

 Horse emotions 

Another international equine welfare study we are involved in aims to improve owner knowledge about how horses express emotions. An international animal welfare science team, including Prof Nat Waran, is exploring how horses express their emotions in ANTICIPATION of different handling situations. Reseachers are interested in if they see these events as positive or negative, how intense their feelings are (calm, excited, or somewhere in between), and the various behaviours/facialand body movements horses exhibit to express their emotional state.  

  Participants are asked to spend 25 minutes watching some short video clips and providing their insights. These videos feature horses trained to anticipate four specific human interactions, each designed to evoke different emotional responses. 

 This survey is open until 10 November: https://www.slu.se/globalassets/ew/horses-emotions.html   

 More to come 

Equine welfare studies such as these are crucial because they help capture public and equestrian opinions, attitudes, and experiences, providing valuable insights into how various parts of society view the way horses are managed in different environments and used for different purposes. The results gained from our international equine welfare work will help inform welfare standards, influence policy decisions, and guide best practices to ensure that horses are cared for in ways that prioritise their health, happiness, and wellbeing, with the aim of providing a Good Life for all equids wherever they may live.  

Two EQuiChip® Events complete!

EQuiChip® is a community initiative dedicated to improving equine welfare through microchipping and registering horses on the NZ Companion Animal Register for positive identification. Our 2024 series has already successfully hosted events in Taupō and Cambridge, and we are eagerly anticipating the upcoming events.

Founded by Companion Animals New Zealand in 2023 after Cyclone Gabrielle, the first EQuiChip® events were held in Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa, microchipping over 200 horses. There are so many benefits of equine microchipping and registration, including helping with proof of ownership, the ability to include body temperature measurements and assisting with mitigating biosecurity risks. The process is easy and, similar to a vaccine, the chip is inserted with a needle.

The 2024 series is taking place between May and November in Taupō, Cambridge, Invercargill, West Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, aims to microchip and register 400-500 horses. Events are organised by Companion Animals New Zealand in collaboration with local veterinarians, equine organisations, and volunteers, with support from MSD Animal Health and the New Zealand Equine Health Association. 

All attendees receive a Thermochip thanks to MSD Animal Health. A Thermochip works in a horse by being implanted in a ligament in the neck area. This microchip includes a temperature sensor that can accurately measure the horse's temperature. When a compatible scanner is passed over the microchip, it not only reads the horse's unique identification number but also retrieves the temperature data. This allows veterinarians and caretakers to monitor the horse's temperature easily and frequently without causing stress or discomfort. Regular temperature monitoring can help in early detection of illnesses, ensuring prompt and effective treatment while maintaining the horse's overall wellbeing.

Two down - four to go

Already two events have taken place and were a great success! With 65 horses added to our New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), we are so pleased their guardian’s details are now linked to their animal in case they ever get separated.

Our first 2024 EQuiChip® event took place in Taupō on Sunday 26 May. What an amazing community event with many volunteers pitching in to get 33 horses microchipped and registered on the NZCAR. A big thank you to our local support there - the Vets from Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre Taupō, Fiber Fresh National Equestrian Centre Taupō and Taupō Equestrian Supplies.

In Cambridge, we successfully microchipped 28 horses and registered 32 on the day to our NZ Companion Animal Register (with some already chipped). Big thanks to our local supporters Cambridge Equine Hospital, CambridgeRaceway, Shoof International and Garrards Horse and Hound.

With four more still to go, we can’t wait to help more communities get behind positive horse identification.

“The process was so much quicker and easier than I thought! Now I have peace of mind that we could be reunited far quicker if we ever become separated.”

— Cambridge horse owners

EQuiChip® Cambridge

EQuiChip® Taupō

Companion Animals New Zealand encourages Government to prioritise pet welfare

Companion Animals New Zealand, dedicated animal welfare charity and custodian of the national companion animal register, is encouraging the Government to ensure the wellbeing of our country’s pet animal species remain a priority.  

A recently publicised letter from the Minister responsible for Animal Welfare (Hon Andrew Hoggard) to the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) has sparked concern that pet welfare may be being deprioritised.  

NAWAC, an independent body providing animal welfare advice to the Government, has been directed to pause their work on the new rabbit code of welfare and any planned work on other companion animal codes of welfare, shifting focus to livestock codes including dairy cattle, sheep, beef, and deer.  

What are the Codes of Welfare?

Codes of welfare are important because they outline the minimum standards for the care and management of animals, which owners need to follow under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.These codes also include recommended best practices to help animal owners achieve positive welfare outcomes. Regular updates to these codes are essential, incorporating the latest research on animal behaviour and welfare, as well as evolving social attitudes. 

Currently, there is no code of welfare to guide owners regarding the standards required for pet rabbits – that's despite them being the third most popular pet in New Zealand. In addition, the current code of welfare for cats has not had a substantive review for 17 years (having only had small amendments since 2007) and the code of welfare for dogs for 14 years (with last substantive review in 2010). Arguably they are both out of date in relation to current scientific knowledge, and therefore good practice expectations. 

“New Zealanders place immense value on their pets with more than 4.35 million companion animals in the country,” says Professor Nat Waran, Director at Companion Animals New Zealand. “The pet population in New Zealand is a significant one and with up-to-date welfare codes we have an opportunity to ensure standards for companion animals are in line with other pet-loving nations around the world. Cats, dogs, and rabbits are cherished members of our households, and their welfare should reflect their importance in our lives.  

“At Companion Animals New Zealand, our mission is to ensure pets lead a Good Life, which goes above and beyond minimum standards of care. Achieving this goal requires up-to-date and comprehensive pet welfare codes which need to be informed by the latest research evidence.” 

New Zealand should maintain high welfare standards

Given New Zealand's high pet ownership rates – second only to the USA in terms of cat ownership – codes of welfare are essential for providing animal welfare officers with a clear baseline to make changes or address issues with owners. Failure to meet the relevant minimum standards outlined in a code can support prosecution, while a defense may include evidence that the care provided equaled or exceeded these minimum standards.

This legal framework ensures that companion animals in New Zealand receive appropriate care and protection in line with their basic needs, making it easier to uphold and improve welfare standards. 

Many animal welfare charities, including Companion Animals NZ, have worked together to draft proposed Codes for Rabbits, Dogs and Cats – and these have been passed onto to NAWAC for consideration as part of their Codes Work Programme. There is also a Companion Animal Subcommittee of NAWAC that has already started to work on the proposed Rabbit Code of Welfare. 

“We acknowledge the Government has many competing priorities, so we seek to ensure the welfare of companion animals is not overlooked,” adds Professor Waran. “We believe that pet welfare should also be prioritised, reflecting the deep bond New Zealanders share with their pets”.

As an organisation committed to promoting positive welfare for all companion animals, Companion Animals New Zealand encourages the Government to consider the significance of pets in our society and the importance of safeguarding their welfare into the future by prioritising the maintenance of up-to-date, world-leading pet codes of welfare.  

If you’d like to be kept up to date on this topic and others, please sign up to hear from us and our welfare newsletter: https://www.companionanimals.nz/newsletters

Read more about the Codes of Welfare on the MPI website here.

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Disclosure of Conflict of Interest 

In the interest of transparency, it is important we disclose that Professor Nat Waran also sits on the NAWAC However, her comments within this article relate to her position as Director at Companion Animals New Zealand.  

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Webinar series – is your pet misbehaving or misunderstood?

In our upcoming ‘Misbehaviour or Misunderstood’ webinar series open to the public, accredited behaviour consultants and veterinary behaviourists will delve into the behaviour of companion animals. Are we interpreting our animal’s behaviour in the wrong way? How can we better understand their drivers?  

Companion animals hold significant importance in the lives of many New Zealanders. More than a third of households have one or more dogs - and we boast the world's highest cat ownership rate, with over 40% of households having at least one feline friend. It is clear that pets are cherished members of our families.  

Despite widespread pet ownership across New Zealand, many pet owners remain unaware of the intricacies of their animals' behaviours. What are the reasons behind their actions and the potential for behavioural challenges? So many pet owners have the best intentions, but aren’t equipped with the right knowledge.

This knowledge gap can lead to mismatches between the natural behaviours of companion animals and the expectations of their owners. As a result, behaviour issues may arise, causing distress for both pets and their humans. 

Addressing these issues has become an increasingly important area of focus in the field of  ‘clinical animal behaviour’. This field, which combines applied ethology and veterinary medicine, employs evidence-based strategies to address a wide range of abnormal or problematic behaviours exhibited by dogs and cats. Experts in this field employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon insights from psychology, ethology, neurobiology, pharmacology, and veterinary science to develop effective solutions for managing and treating behavioural issues in companion animals. 

Webinar series coming soon! 

In our upcoming ‘Misbehaviour or Misunderstood’ webinar series, accredited behaviour consultants and veterinary behaviourists will delve into the behaviour of companion animals.

These experts will uncover the root causes and motivations behind companion animals’ actions, shedding light on what these behaviours signify for the animal's overall well-being. Offering practical guidance, they'll equip participants with tools to address common behavioural challenges and ensure their pets receive everything necessary for a fulfilling life. 

The series will span 4-5 evening webinars, occurring fortnightly starting on the 31st of July. Each webinar will last approximately 60 minutes, providing ample opportunity for sharing insights and addressing pertinent topics. The webinars are free to attend, with the option to provide a small donation following the webinar if you found it useful - so we can continue to run these events into the future to help Kiwi pet owners across the country. 

Topic number 1

Our first topic Aggression Towards Familiar People - Beyond the Myth of Dominance addresses the complexities surrounding aggression by dogs towards familiar people. Given the prevalent misinterpretations surrounding this behaviour, such as misattributing it to “dominance”, there's a pressing need to understand and address the multifaceted reasons which contribute to this aggression.  

Presenting this topic will be Mat Ward, a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, who has helped thousands of pets (and their humans!) over the past 25 years. Early in his career, while completing his Master’s degree through Massey Vet School, Mat worked hands-on training problem dogs.  During the 2000s he established himself as a leading behaviour practitioner in Edinburgh, Scotland, with over 130 veterinary clinics referring behaviour cases to him by the time he moved back to New Zealand in 2021.  Recently, Mat published “What Dogs Want”, a fun, illustration-filled handbook for dog guardians.  Mat is accredited through the Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour as a Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB), and is accredited or a member of leading companion animal behaviour organisations such as CANZ, ABTC, IAABC, APBC, and FABC. 

During this webinar, Mat will pass on what he has learned from 25 years in the field of dog behaviour. He will outline patterns of aggression towards familiar people he has observed over the years, explain the core reasons for this behaviour, and summarise the practical techniques and recommendations he finds most useful for his clients.   

Be sure to keep an eye out for further updates on this topic on our website and social media channels! You can register your interest in attending via our form linked in the button below. 

What is Companion Animals NZ Accreditation? 

Companion Animals NZ Accredited professionals have demonstrated that they have met the CANZ Accreditation professional standards and follow the CANZ Code of Ethical Conduct. By choosing a CANZ Accredited professional you can be assured that they will use humane training methods that are based on an understanding of the way animals learn. Read more about this here: https://www.companionanimals.nz/accreditation  

Microchip myth-busting!

There are a lot of myths out there about microchipping and registration of pets, so we decided to use the month of May to bust many of them! 

Firstly, what is a microchip? A microchip is a small device about the size of a grain of rice implanted in your companion animal. The microchip holds a unique number that needs to be registered to a database and associated with your details – this unique number can be read using a microchip scanner by an Approved User (including Vets, SPCA and many animal rescues). 

Microchipping then registering your animal is an important part of responsible ownership. The NZ Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) was created by Companion Animals New Zealand as a database to hold microchip information with guardian details and has over 1.3 million animals on it. The NZCAR helps lost pets get home to their worried families. 

Now let’s get to the myth-busting! 

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1: MYTH: Microchips have GPS / can track location  

FACT: A microchip is not a GPS or tracking device, so nobody can track your pet's location via the microchip for any purpose, whether this is to attempt to steal them or to help recover them if they become lost. Microchips are passive and only ‘activate’ in the presence of an appropriate scanner (which will read the microchip number). 

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 2. MYTH: My dog is registered with the Council (National Dog Database) so doesn’t need to be registered with the NZCAR  

FACT: The National Dog Database (NDD) Council registration and the NZCAR serve different purposes. The NDD is mandatory and helps monitor dangerous dogs. The Dog Control Act 1996 mandates registration of dogs over three months old with local councils. These details are accessible only by Council staff.  

Our NZCAR is voluntary, created to provide a national database of all microchipped pets, accessed by Approved Users (such as vet clinics and SPCA), so that found pets can quickly be returned home.

It is extremely important that new dog owners understand these differences so that they can make an informed decision for their pet. Check out our handy 'differences' graphic here: https://www.animalregister.co.nz/.../A4-Database... 

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 3. MYTH: The microchip itself holds guardian information  

FACT: A microchip contains only a unique number which can be read using a microchip scanner. That number must then be associated with the guardian's details in a database such as the NZCAR in order for that microchip to be used to get the pet home. Once an animal is found they can then be scanned by more than 900 Approved Users around NZ to see if the animal has a guardian associated with them. 

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 4. MYTH: The Guardian's personal information is exposed via the microchip itself (anyone could access details)  

FACT: A pet’s microchip number is linked to their guardian’s details on a secure database (such as the NZCAR). NZCAR Approved Users can only search the database by microchip number so they must have your pet and approved access to NZCAR, in order to find your details. Any time you log into your account, you can review the details that would be visible, should your animal be found and scanned by an Approved User of the NZCAR. We take privacy seriously and recently had an independent assessment confirming our system is very secure. 

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 5. MYTH: Registration is automatic. An animal's microchip is immediately registered to a database when it is implanted 

FACT: Registration is not automatic to any databases. Even your veterinary team, SPCA or local council will need to manually enter your pet’s microchip number into their own system at the time of implantation.  

Most veterinary teams will begin the NZCAR registration process for their clients, but it's important to expect an email from the NZCAR. This will tell you that registration is successful AND ask you to log in to ensure your details have been entered correctly and to complete all remaining fields (you can even add a photo of your pet!). 

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 6. MYTH: Vet clinics can access each other’s systems so it is not important to register on the NZCAR 

FACT: Veterinary clinics can only access their own clinic’s client information and animal data. If your pet were to go missing and their microchip number was only stored on your vet clinic’s system, your pet would need to be taken to your vet clinic in order for them to contact you. What if your pet wandered to the next neighbourhood, or a kind citizen picked up your pet and took them to their vet across town?! Having your pet registered on the NZCAR means your contact details can be accessed by over 900 Approved Users all around NZ – including all vets, SPCA and many animal rescues. 

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7. MYTH: Implanting is painful/unsafe 

FACT: Placing a microchip is a very common procedure. For many species, the microchip is implanted under the scruff or the skin of the neck and does not cause any more than slight discomfort – the same as anyone would feel if they received an injection! 
It is important that your animal is microchipped by a vet or trained professional to ensure the microchip is located and implanted correctly (which varies between species). This professional will know how best to restrain your animal, before and after care, and correct implantation technique to ensure the safety of your animal.  

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8. MYTH Microchips cause long-term health issues  

FACT: Microchipping has an established, long-term health safety record. While it is not possible to claim that a reaction to an implanted microchip will never happen, microchipping is considered a safe procedure endorsed by veterinary professionals, and as such, the likelihood of your pet experiencing an adverse reaction is very low.  

The benefits of having your pet positively identifiable (and therefore increased chances of being reunited with them should they become lost), far outweigh any rare and unlikely negative health impacts associated with the procedure. 

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9. MYTH Only cats and dogs can be microchipped 

FACT: The NZCAR has over 1.3 million animals registered of many species! These absolutely do include cats and dogs, but also horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, cows, turtles and more! If you have an animal that, should it go missing, you would like linked back to your contact details – microchip and register them on the NZCAR. Ask your vet today about ensuring ALL your beloved companions are microchipped and registered. 

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So, there we have it! Nine of the most common myths around microchipping. If your pet is not microchipped, getting one implanted is quick, easy and affordable. Give your local vet clinic a call and ask them about booking an appointment or adding the procedure to an existing appointment. You could also reach out to a mobile vet/nurse in your area that may provide this service in your home. You can view a list of approved implanters here. 

 Microchipping is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Read more about it on our NZCAR website: animalregister.co.nz.

Video: Professor Nat Waran on her work with International Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission

At the recent International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) conference at Cambridge, New Zealand, in March 2024, Professor Nat Waran from Companion Animals New Zealand spoke about the work she led in developing a proposed welfare strategy with a new vision of a Good Life for Horses in Sport.

As Chair of the independent Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission set up in June 2022 by the FEI (the international governing body of equestrian sports), Nat led the 10-person Commission who were tasked with developing a final report with recommendations to safeguard equine welfare and the future involvement of horses in sport.

Watch her summary of this work in the following video.