Dog DNA Tests in NZ: What You Need To Know

Dog pawprint

With loads of cute mixed breed dogs popping up all over social media, we’re seeing that ‘dog DNA test NZ’ is a commonly searched term. Kiwi pet parents are looking to find out their canine friends’ origins via dog genetic testing to see whether they’re secret purebred dogs or far-fetched crosses. Pug cross Great Dane, … Read more

Cat Enclosures to Keep Cats Safe: All About the Catio

a cat crosses a homemade pond inside its cat enclosure

Cat enclosures are incredibly useful ways to keep kitty safe while also protecting wildlife, and they’re growing in use across the country. What us Kiwis call catios (or sometimes cat runs) are made using cat netting around a wooden structure, and they’re an all in one playpen and sanctuary for your whiskery family. Notwithstanding their … Read more

Cancer in Dogs: Why Breed, Age and Gender Matter

A woman holds her Labradoodle who has been screened for canine cancer as she looks out at the ocean wondering about the test results

Sadly, cancer in dogs is just as common as it is in humans. In terms of numbers, roughly half of all dogs will develop some form of cancer after their 10th birthday, with lymphoma in dogs being the most common canine cancer. But don’t give up hope – it’s not all bad news! As scary … Read more

Tips to Find Your Lost Pet on a Holiday Roadtrip

How to find your lost pet like this Weimaraner dog, on a holiday road trip.

If you’ve ever lost a pet during a holiday road trip, we’re sorry. Hopefully, you’re reading this as a precaution, but either way, you’re in the right place. This article is all about how to find a lost pet – in case yours ever does go missing. Our research shows that more and more pet parents are … Read more

New Cat Allergy Vaccine Stops Itches and Sneezes at Source

A woman plays with her cat with no adverse effects after it's been administered the HypoCat cat allergy vaccine

Do you suffer from cat allergies? Or perhaps you’re allergic to some cats but not others? Then you may be in luck… HypoCat is a new cat vaccine causing a bit of a stir. Unlike cat allergy shots that help desensitise humans, this vaccine will work at the source of the allergen (Fel d 1) and … Read more

In Conversation with Dogs NZ Canine Health and Welfare Officer, Rhea Hurley

Rhea Hurley bikejoring with her dogs

Dog breeds without health problems is an increasingly popular topic of conversation because there’s so much talk about breeds that do have them. Notably, it’s poor breeding practices such as a lack of dog health screening rather than the breeds themselves that are at issue. Aware of this, Dogs NZ appointed veterinarian and accredited behaviour … Read more

Puppy Training 101: Essential Tips to Teach Them Right

It's time for this Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy to learn some basic puppy training commands like sit and stay. We can also teach this dog urinating inside not to

A new puppy is a bundle of joy and love… and pee and poo. If you’re pondering how to begin puppy training, then look no further. Here’s how to crate train, leash train, teach basic cues and potty train your pooch using the best (healthy) puppy training treats ever. Basic cues for puppy training At … Read more

PD Turns Three, Celebrates 12 Insurance Milestones in a Year

A PD dog celebrates PD's third birthday with a dog friendly cup cake

August 2023 marked PD Insurance turning three years old! In the grand scheme of things, three years may not be a very long time. However, we’ve managed to reach many special milestones in that period. In this PD Insurance birthday article, we’re remembering the insurance milestones we’ve shared with pets and people. (After all, that’s … Read more

Easy and Yummy Dog Food Recipes

Have you heard of dognuts? This black dog has!

Fido just wants a tasty meal when he’s had a ruff day (being cute and digging holes in the backyard is tiring). We’ve created a list of heart-healthy, wholesome dog food recipes you’ll be able to whip up in no time. Besides including easy raw dog food recipes, you’ll find ‘sweet’ recipes for a yum … Read more

What Does AAFCO Stand for in Pet Food?

dog eats AAFCO approved dog food

If you could save on some of your vet costs by feeding your cat or dog fantastic food, would you? They say you are what you eat, after all. But with endless aisles of pet food brands, which ones should you choose? Pet food that meets AAFCO guidelines is a great way to start. If … Read more