Minister Andrew Hoggard visits SPCA's Māngere Centre

Last week, we were pleased to welcome Hon Andrew Hoggard, Minister responsible for the Government's animal welfare portfolio, for a visit to our Māngere Centre. The visit provided an opportunity for the Minister to hear directly about some of the most pressing animal welfare issues for New Zealanders.

Minister Hoggard was hosted by SPCA's Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Arnja Dale and National Inspectorate Manager Alan Wilson, who appreciated the opportunity to share key insights and advocate for better protections for animals across Aotearoa.

We are encouraged to see the Minister progressing regulations to address prolonged dog tethering – an issue on which SPCA has long advocated.

But it’s not enough. New Zealand is facing significant and increasing welfare challenges for dogs, cats, and rabbits. The unregulated and irresponsible breeding of companion animals is a significant factor impacting animal welfare. It contributes to overpopulation, exacerbates community nuisance and danger, and places pressure on rescues and animal welfare organisations.

SPCA is calling on the Government to introduce legislation to regulate companion animal breeding - something New Zealand currently lacks. In addition, we urgently need progress on the long-overdue companion animal codes of welfare. These codes set minimum standards for how animals should be cared for, but they are now out of date and must be updated to reflect current science and best practice.

SPCA thanks Minister Hoggard for taking the time to visit and engage on these critical issues. We look forward to continuing constructive conversations and seeing meaningful action to protect animals in our communities.

Find out about how you can help call for progress for companion animals here.