If you're considering getting a pet, adopting a cat or a dog is a great option. Whether you’re looking for a specific breed or would like to rehome an abandoned stray, these Christchurch organisations make it easy to find the right pet for your needs.
Before you adopt, it’s important that you think about what type of pet would fit your life. Your lifestyle and living situation will have a big impact on your pet’s quality of life.
If you are a renter, the good news is that Christchurch has a lot more pet-friendly rentals than other parts of the country. It’s a good idea to move into a pet-friendly rental or bring up the topic of pet ownership with your landlord before you adopt. This way, you won’t jeopardise your accommodation.
If you own a home, consider how your space will impact the needs of your pet. If you live in an apartment or townhouse, a cat or small dog might be a more appropriate option. Owning a backyard is essential for some breeds of dogs. If you have children, make sure you do your research before adopting a dog or cat. You’ll want to ensure your chosen pet is patient and good with kids.
Owning a pet comes with a lot of benefits. They’re proven to help decrease stress levels and make you happier and healthier, thanks to all the increased walking and playing you’ll do. However, pets can be expensive. There are costs associated with feeding, training and sheltering them, plus veterinarian appointments. Make sure you factor all the expenses of owning a pet into your budget before you get one. Adopting is a great way to save money on the initial cost of getting a pet.
Finally, consider how a pet will impact your lifestyle. Dogs need much more exercise and attention than cats do. If you’re not very active, have a disability, or find it difficult to get out and walk each day, medium and large dog breeds may be too much work for you. A small dog or cat might be a better option. Consider how much socialising, exercise, playing and attention each breed of dog you are considering will need. Don’t underestimate how much attention a cat needs, either! Studies show cats, especially those who live indoors, need play to stimulate their brains.
Dedicated to rescuing and rehoming bull breeds, this organisation focuses on breeds like pit bulls, Staffordshire terriers, and bulldogs. Christchurch Bull Breed Rescue provides a safe haven for these dogs, ensuring they receive the care they need and matching them with loving homes forever. Many bull breeds are discriminated against when it comes to adoption, even though they often have sweet temperaments and make great family pets. They also help rehome dogs that have been abandoned, neglected and unwanted.
Visit their website at www.chchbullbreedrescue.org.nz for more information.
This non-profit organisation specialises in rescuing and rehoming abandoned and neglected dogs. They provide a safe environment for dogs of all breeds and sizes, and their dedicated team works to find each dog the perfect home. Because most of the dogs in their care come to Dogwatch after being neglected, they are passionate about finding the right home the second time around. You will be asked questions about your home situation, property, permanence, lifestyle and their adopting terms and conditions to make sure you’re a good fit.
Learn more about their available dogs at www.dogwatch.co.nz
Cat Rescue Christchurch is a volunteer-based organisation committed to rescuing and rehoming cats. They offer a variety of kittens, and they aim to reduce the stray cat population in New Zealand. They rescue cats from various situations, typically as strays and provide them with necessary veterinary care before either releasing them or finding them a home.
To explore their available cats, visit www.catrescue.org.nz
The Christchurch Council's Animal Shelter allows you to find your perfect furry companion. To explore dogs available for adoption, visit their Facebook page and contact the shelter team to discuss your interest. You’ll need to bring personal identification such as a driver's license, passport, utility bill, or birth certificate to verify that you are over the age of 16 years.
The shelter is closed for adoptions on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays and open between 1 pm and 5 pm throughout the week, website.
The Cat Lounge offers a unique cat adoption experience where visitors can relax with adoptable cats while enjoying a cup of coffee. This cosy café provides a temporary home for needy cats and facilitates adoptions to loving families. They have several locations throughout New Zealand, including Catnap Cafe in Christchurch.
To spend time with their adoptable cats, visit their website at www.thecatlounge.co.nz
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Canterbury offers a wide range of cats and dogs for adoption. They rescue animals from neglectful or abusive situations, providing them with medical care, rehabilitation, and love.
Explore their available pets and adoption process at www.spcacanterbury.org.nz
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