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Pet Ownership

Owning a pet can be a wonderful part of life, and there are well-known mental health benefits associated with having animal companions. These include stress reduction, building self-esteem and a sense of responsibility, and even reducing the severity and likelihood of depression. But having a companion animal in New Zealand entails complying with certain rules and obligations. This section outlines some key areas to be aware of.

Municipal Regulations

Tenancy Situations

Cats and Dogs

Adopting a Pet

Your local municipal authority or City Council will have its own rules regarding pet ownership. It is important to be aware of these, for your own protection and for the well-being of the animals.

For example, many municipalities limit the number of pets allowed on the same premises. Likewise, there may be limits on where you can take animals - some species of protected native flora and fauna in public spaces may be vulnerable, or there may be public health reasons. Ensuring that you are aware of these rules is part of the responsibility of animal ownership.

If you are living in a rental property, be aware that not all property owners allow animals. It is important to obtain the property owner's authorisation, and for that to be stated clearly in the property lease or rental agreement.

The costs associated with properly caring for a cat for 1 year (2015 estimates) are roughly $700. If you want to have a cat in your house, you must:

  • register it with a microchip (tiny electronic device inserted under the animal's skin, which can help reunite you if the animal runs away)

  • monitor its fertility

  • ensure that it remains in good health (it must have food and water, and opportunity to exercise)

  • ensure that someone will look after it whenever you are absent for a prolonged period

  • The costs associated with properly caring for a dog for 1 year (2015 estimates) are roughly $1700. If you want to have a dog in your house, you must:

  • microchip the dog and register it in your municipality

  • keep it under your control at all times when in public

  • ensure that it has adequate food, water, and a place to sleep

  • keep it in good physical condition by providing regular exercise

  • properly remove your dog's droppings from public spaces

  • respect the rules where dogs are allowed, and avoid taking it to places where dogs are not allowed (park signage usually clarifies when dogs are not allowed)

  • arrange for someone to take care of your dog if you g on a trip and can't take it with you

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If you are able to meet the obligations of pet ownership, you are encouraged to consider the option of adopting an animal from any of the organisations which rescue abandoned or abused animals and try to place them in more caring homes. These include:

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