Local Info
Places you can take your dog, local rescues & resources for the South Canterbury area.
Off Leash Dog Exercise Areas - TIMARU
Ashbury Park
Marchwiel Park
Timaru Dog Park
Redruth Park
Scenic Reserve (Centennial Park)
West End Park
South Beach
Waimataitai Beach
Otipua Beach
Caroline Bay Beach Tidal Area and only between the “Dogs Prohibited” signs for the penguin friendly areas at either end of the beach - 1 April to 30 September inclusive each year. Beware of seals that are sometimes in the area.
Salt Water Creek Walkway
Off Leash Dog Exercise Areas - TEMUKA, GERALDINE, PLEASANT POINT
Temuka
River areas (the river bed, ie shingle, streams and berm areas)
Domain Avenue on the tree walkway between Rayner Street and Murray Street
Temuka Domain (the area between the southern boundary of the Temuka Holiday Park and continuing along the stormwater channel which follows the southern boundary of the Temuka Golf Course and east of the Torepe Fields carpark, sports field and training area).
Geraldine
Reserve opposite Fire Station.
Todd Park
Pleasant Point
River areas (the river bed, ie shingle, stream and berm areas)
Pleasant Point Domain (Fire Brigade practice Area when not in use by Fire Brigade)
Dog Friendly Cafes & Eateries
TIMARU
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The Speight's Ale House - Dogs on a lead are welcome in the courtyard area. More info here.
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Zest Restaurant - Social dogs on a lead are welcome - water bowls ready! Find more info here
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GERALDINE
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The Running Duck - Dogs are welcome in the outdoor area, water bowls will be ready! More info here
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Barker's Foodstore & Eatery - Dog are welcome in the outdoor area with two large water bowls available! More info here
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Do you know of another cafe or eatery that is happy to have dogs? Get in touch so they can be added to the list!
Other Important Information
Dog Registration
All dogs must be registered at the age of three months and from 1 July every year thereafter. Registration is due from 1 July, to be paid by 31 August. If your dog is neutered or spayed or you have Selected Owner Status, you'll get a discounted fee.
More information can be found here
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Companion Animals Register New Zealand
Pets may go missing for a number of reasons - spooked by fireworks, a natural disaster or just bolting out an open gate.
Registration means that as soon as an animal's microchip is scanned by a vet clinic, SPCA or local council they can then contact you and arrange their safe return.
More information can be found here
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Lost or found a dog or other animal?
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Create a listing here on lost pet
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Or list on our local Facebook pages
Pets LOST and FOUND Timaru, South Canterbury
New Zealand Lost Pet Register - NZLPR
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Vet clinics & Pet Shops in South Canterbury
Vet Clinics
Vetlife - Clinics in Timaru, Temuka & Farlie find more info here
Aorangi Vets - Clinics in Timaru, Gerldine & Farlie find more info here
Timaru's Family Vet - Timaru find more info here
Gateway Vets - Geraldine find more info here
The Blue Cross Veterinary Centre Timaru & Waimate find more info here
Pet Shops
For Pets Sake - Timaru find more info here
Pet Central - Timaru find more info here
Animates Timaru find more info here
Recommended Online Pet Supply Store
Kiwi Canine - Quality products Christchurch based Find more information here
Pet Direct - Aims to be the most trusted and convenient destination for Kiwi pet parents, offering the finest selection of products, expert advice, and unparalleled service. Find more information here
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Recommended Online Vet Pet Health Blog/Podcast
Our Pet's Health - Helping pet parents understand and optimize the health of their furry family. Created by local South Canterbury vet! Find out more here
Awesome Apps
Dog Vision - See through the eyes of a dog! Dogs not only see in shades of gray but also can see distinct colors contrary to popular belief. This application simulates dog vision using the device camera. It is great to use if you are shopping for a new toy, see how your dog sees it, you may be surprised! Available on google play here.
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Dog Decoder - Do you know how to read your dog’s body language? Do you understand when he tries to tell you he’s stressed, or submissive, or ready for fun-time? Can you tell the difference between excitement and fear, or between aggression and the need to play? Dog language can be confusing, but with the help of Dog Decoder, you’ll understand your dog’s signals like a pro. Available on both google play here, and apple here
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Sniffspot - Like Air BnB but for dogs! Safe, private dog parks to help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. An awesome option for dogs that need space, as you book your time to go. Currently there are not any options locally. I would LOVE to see this change! If you have a safe area that you are not using, and would like some extra cash as a side hussle - this could be a great option! Available on both google here and apple here.
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Zigzag Puppy Training App - guides you through the ups and downs of puppyhood, ensuring it’s a fun and stress-free journey all the way. Zigzag breaks down the life skills your dog will need to live happily in the world. Available on both google here and apple here.
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Local Rescues - Give a dog a home!
POUND PAWS RESCUE
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Pound Paws is a not-for-profit organisation and has all volunteer workers, They are totally self-funded and rely on fundraising efforts and donations from the public.
The dogs that come into their care come from a variety of places - pounds, farms, vets and the community. Dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped, registered, flea/worm treated. All of the dogs are housed in foster homes.
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https://www.poundpawsrescue.org.nz/
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SPCA TIMARU
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If you are interested in adopting, fostering or volunteering, please contact the Timaru SPCA via the website link below or by phoning them to make an appointment.
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Looking to adopt a CAT? Try the links below for our local cat rescue groups
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