Committed to positive animal welfare

Companion Animals New Zealand is a charity passionate about transforming New Zealand into a global leader in companion animal welfare, and that all starts with educating humans first and foremost. We envision a world where every pet thrives and experiences the Good Life they deserve.


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Our work

Research and education

Engagement programmes

Companion Animal Register

We’re applying the science of human behaviour change to achieve positive animal welfare

Through research and education, we develop effective change programmes and empower pet owners to provide exceptional care - above and beyond basic needs.

We provide information on what an animal needs to live a Good Life, by collecting and utilising data, uncovering knowledge gaps, addressing barriers and developing effective change programmes. Our ‘Good Life for Animals’ Centre is driving these initiatives.

We’re promoting the highest standards of animal welfare - in theory and practice

In collaboration with animal organisations locally and internationally, we’re driving cultural shifts and turning dreams of a better world for our companions into tangible progress.

We bring experts together to speak at internationally renowned conferences and connect on vital topics . We accredit animal trainers and behaviour professionals who meet highs standard of animal welfare. And we donate vital funds to an independent Trust enabling animal shelters to carry out vital desexing work.

We're using data to power our comprehensive pet knowledge for New Zealand

Our NZ Companion Animal Register connects more than 1.3 million pets with their guardians. Our register has 1000 authorised users nationwide, such as vet clinics, SPCA and rescues and more than 400,000 users registered on the system. We engage these people in our work and gain valuable insights into the ‘state of the nation’ for our pets.

Through collective efforts, we aim to be a hub for data, collaboration, and insights on companion animals in New Zealand.


We’re here to create a brighter future for COMPANION ANIMALS IN NEW ZEALAND 

New Zealanders love animals, and when it comes to having them as companions, we have over 4.35 million of them. Proportionately, there are more companion animals in New Zealand than anywhere in the world, other than the United States. Many of us share our homes with companion animals and think of them as part of the family.  

Our evidence-based work aims to facilitate a harmonious relationship between companion animals, people and the environment. As a charitable trust, all of our activities are carried out on behalf of companion animals, serving as their collective voice in New Zealand.


The New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR) is NZ’s leading microchip database for pets with more than 1.3 million pets registered and over 1000 approved users nationwide, such as vet clinics, SPCA and rescues. We connect companion animals to their guardian details to ensure swift repatriation in case of separation and we offer a lost and found service.

The NZCAR is for all pets big and small, including cats, dogs, rabbits, horses, birds, guinea pigs, and more.


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