Latest News

Keep up-to-date with the latest Pet Travel and Jetpets news.

Proudly transporting Mobility Dogs

Posted on August 30, 2019 by Jetpets

Little Darby is going to change someone’s life for the better one day soon, and he doesn’t even know it yet.

Jetpets are proud to provide the safe transportation for Mobility Dogs, as they travel around New Zealand for training and support requirements.

Mobility Dogs mission is to enhance the lives of people living with disabilities, increasing independence, confidence, self esteem and participation in New Zealand communities. Mobility dogs are trained to offer practical support, companionship and security. They transform the lives of people with disabilities as they help with everyday tasks and provide emotional support.

Darby began his life changing journey when he travelled from Auckland to Queenstown with Jetpets to be with his puppy raisers in Southern Lakes, where he now proudly wears his L plates as he commences his training.

Over the next twelve months Darby will learn to:

Retrieve and carry items – such as help load and unload the washing.
Deliver items to a person
Open and close doors and drawers
Press buttons for elevators and pedestrian crossings
Help with payments in shops
Assist with daily activities such as dressing and undressing
Turn lights on and off

If you wish to find out more about Mobility Dogs and how you can help click through here.

Winter Pet Fashion

Posted on July 30, 2019 by Jetpets

We all love dressing our pets up in cute outfits and with the arrival of winter, you now have another great reason to get shopping! Winter is the best time to have fun and choose fashionable outfits for your pets to keep them warm and stylish throughout the cooler seasons.

With the exposure to harsh temperatures during the day and freezing cold nights, it’s important to protect your furry friend with extra layers that are practical and fashion-forward.

Many smaller breeds who have light layers of fur may have difficulty keeping themselves warm in cooler times of the year, especially when outdoors. This also applies to our senior companions who can have difficulty regulating their body temperature. That’s why it’s vital to dress them in functional clothing to protect them from the cold and keep them happy and stylish during winter.

Need some advice on what to dress your pets in this winter? Read on below for the winter essentials your pet needs now.

A Jacket:

You can’t go wrong with a great jacket for all pets big and small. For those very cool days that are spent outdoors, a thicker waterproof jacket that covers your pet’s stomach and the majority of their body is best, however for days spent indoors a lightweight jacket or jumper will suffice. Have some fun and choose styles with cute colours and prints including leopard print, cameo, stripes or bold geometric shapes. Just make sure you steer clear of jackets with zips, buttons or additional detailing that your pet may chew off.

A Jumper:

If you are spending the day indoors, a jumper is a great alternative to a jacket for your pet. There are many options to choose from, like a classic knitted sweater, to a too-cool for school hoodie. A wool blend jumper is a great option for all pets as it keeps them nice and warm without irritating their skin. For comfort and practicality, a hoodie is ideal for active pets. The hood can keep their ears and head warm and the stretchy fabric makes it easy for them to play and exercise no matter where you are!

A few things to remember when buying an item of clothing to keep your pets warm this winter include:

Ensure that the item cannot be easily pulled off
Check the size, making sure it fits your pet correctly and is comfortable to wear
Check the item doesn’t drag on the ground
Ensure it isn’t too tight, especially around the neck
Check that it doesn’t get caught on anything during normal movement and activities

Does your pet have a favourite piece of clothing that they love to wear in winter? Comment and share what it is with us on Facebook.

Winter Tips for Your Pet

Posted on July 30, 2019 by Jetpets

With the cooler weather well and truly upon us, we are often asked by owners about their pet’s needs in winter.

So we thought we’d clear things up! Here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions…

Q: Is it important to exercise our pets in winter, even when it’s freezing outside?

A: Winter activities will vary widely depending on what kind of pet you have, their personality, and the severity of the weather. When it comes to dogs, they really need to get out all year round, even in colder weather. Dogs who really enjoy the outdoors and colder temperatures can have just as much exercise in the winter as the summer. You can keep your walks shorter for those who don’t enjoy the winter weather as much.

Q: Are coats and jackets a good idea for pets who spend time outside during winter?

A: Some dogs with thin coats will benefit from a jacket, and find freezing temperatures much more enjoyable with the extra layer!

Q: Does my dog or cat need to eat more in winter to help survive the cold?

A: Because people and animals often are less active in the winter months, we often find that people need to feed their dogs less during the winter. If you and your dog are very active, or if your dog is primarily outside, then you may need to increase their food proportionally.

Q: Does my pet still need lots of fresh water, even though it’s cold outside and they may not be as thirsty?

A: Fresh water is always necessary, even if your dog isn’t drinking as much as during the hot summer.

Our Top Winter Tips:

Cold winter days can be particularly uncomfortable for slim, younger or older dogs when it comes to nap time. We suggest elevating their bed off the ground where possible, and placing a hot water bottle (with warm not boiling water) into their bed or kennel. This will soon make for a comfortable place to rest

Tenzing’s Big Adventure

Posted on June 7, 2019 by Jetpets

“Gentle, playful and friendly”. That is how Hamilton Zoo Keeper Delwyn Crombie described young red panda Tenzing – and that is certainly the experience we had when we took care of him during his transfer to Tasmania Zoo.

Born at Hamilton Zoo, Tenzing is three years old. From six weeks he was supplement fed, due to difficulty competing for his mothers milk with his much bigger twin sister Jamuna. Although he remained with his mum, Tenzing became a very friendly animal through regular contact with his keepers and became an ambassador for the red panda species.

Tenzing’s latest adventure saw him transfer to Tasmania Zoo as part of the breeding program to continue the conservation efforts for the species. On transfer day, Tenzing was well prepared and hopped into his travel crate remaining calm and relaxed. He travelled from Auckland to Melbourne where he enjoyed refreshments from a Jetpets Pet Handler during his stop over before continuing to Tasmania.

As you can see in the photo, there is no doubt Tenzing’s imagination would have been running wild as he enjoyed watching the world around him on the journey.

He has now settled into his new home. “Tenzing is doing well,” said Keeper Rochelle Penny. “I’d happily say he had a great trip over. He arrived into Launceston very calm and relaxed, after arriving he came straight out and began eating. I’d say he had worked up an appetite.”

Tasmania Zoo is a privately owned, local family-zoo situated 18kms from Launceston. They are dedicated to continuous contribution to wildlife conservation and to the education of the community at large.

Tasmania Zoo exhibits the largest collection of rare, exotic and native species in Tasmania, and with their newest addition Tenzing, is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. You can find out more by visiting their website here.

Satu the Well Travelled Tiger

Posted on March 21, 2019 by Jetpets

Here at Jetpets most of our feline happy travellers are much loved family cats. However recently we were lucky enough to take care of the world’s largest member of the cat species – a Tiger!

Meet Satu, a 13 year old Sumatran Tiger.

Jetpets transported Satu from Queensland, to Ballarat Wildlife Park on a Qantas Freighter Aircraft. Satu travelled overnight and arrived at his new home in the early hours of the morning.

Satu is a very confident, strong and bold 13 year old Sumatran Tiger that has moved several times in his life. He was born in Germany, and travelled to Australia to be a part of the Australiasian Breeding Program.

“Satu just takes it in his stride. His journey from Queensland to Ballarat Wildlife Park was organised with Jetpets. We can not thank Jetpets enough for achieving everything we asked for to make Satu’s journey safe. The staff were amazing and supportive to our every need,”said Ballarat Wildlife Park chief tiger keeper Robbie Doyle.

Whilst living in Queensland for four years Satu fathered one litter with a female Sumatran Tiger named Maneki.

Satu and Maneki were then recommended to move to Ballarat Wildlife Park to live and be part of Greg Parker’s new dream, the new Conservation Precinct Area. These two beautiful and majestic Sumatran Tigers are now great ambassadors for their wild cousins and now help the staff at the Ballarat Wildlife Park educate thousands of guests about the plight of the Tigers. They are also great motivators to help raise much needed funds to save their wild cousins, with only 300-500 hundred wild Sumatran Tigers known to still live in their natural habitat.

Since arriving at Ballarat Wildlife Park, Satu has settled in with ease, cruising around all the enclosures marking his territory, chuffing at the female tiger Maneki and getting to know his new keepers.

His appetite for food is great, he has gained 1 kilogram in weight since arriving over one week ago at the wildlife park and his keepers are spending a lot of down time chilling around Satu as well as bonding via training.

Top 5 Pet Friendly Cafes in Wellington

Posted on January 12, 2017 by Jetpets

Here at Jetpets, we love any excuse to get out to our local cafes with our dogs! What’s better than spending your morning with a cup of coffee and man’s best friend by your side? Here are our picks of dog friendly cafes in Wellington.

Beach Babylon

232 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay

Beach Babylon is the ultimate pet friendly café. Not only do they welcome dogs of all shapes and sizes, they also provide comfortable dog beds and water bowls for all furry visitors. Don’t leave your dog out; order them a pupsicle or dogaccino from the k9 menu!

Image courtesy of Beach Babylon

Rougue and Vagabond

18 Garrett St, Wellington

Nothing says ‘summer’ more than a drink at the local pub on a warm summers afternoon. Rougue and Vagabond is the perfect location for those that want to bring their dogs along too! Dogs are welcome to enjoy the sunshine with their owners in the outdoor garden area.

Carlton Café

44 Coutts St, Kilbirnie

Carlton Café is a suburban hotspot. Head down to grab a coffee and a slice of cake in the courtyard and bring your dog too for a relaxing day in the sun!

Mojo Poneke

1 Clyde Quay Wharf, Te Aro

Mojo Poneke is located right on the waterfront of Clyde Warf. Dogs are welcome at this sea-side cafe in all outdoor areas. Get down early and enjoy the sunrise with your furry-friend!

Picnic Café

101 Glenmore St, Thorndon

Wellington’s Botanic Gardens are a must-see when visiting the North Island. Take your dog for a walk through the pet friendly gardens, then stop off at Picnic Café for a brew. You and your dog are sure to enjoy a day in the idyllic Botanic Gardens!

What are your favourite cafes to hit up with your dog? Let us know on Facebook!

How to Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer

Posted on December 18, 2016 by Jetpets

Summer has finally arrived, which means holidays, beach days and barbeques! As the winter coats go away and the air conditioners go on, it’s important to make sure we help keep our pets cool as the temperature rises.

Not sure where to start? Here are our tips on how to keep your pets cool throughout summer!

DIY Ice Treats:

Ice treats are a great way to encourage your pet to stay cool and hydrated in the hot weather!

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for DIY ice treats:

Place a few of your pets favourite treats in an ice tray (suitable for smaller dogs) or an empty ice cream container (suitable for larger dogs)
Fill with water. To add a bit of flavor you can mix in some beef stock or gravy powder!
Tip the treat out and watch as your pet enjoys their new treat! It’s a great idea to place the ice treat into an empty food bowl so there’s not as much clean up afterwards!

Pool Time:

Kiddie pools are a great way to help keep your pets cool in the warmer weather. Dogs can splash around and even drink! Alternatively, you can get out the garden hose and splash your pet, (as long as they are enjoying it!)

Stay Inside:

During the hot weather, it’s a good idea to keep your animals inside. If your pet normally sleeps outside, consider bringing them inside on warm nights, especially if you are lucky enough to have air conditioning. Like us, once they get hot it is hard for our pets to cool down, so its best to keep them cool before the weather heats up.

Smaller animals such as birds and rabbits can be quite heat sensitive too. If you can’t bring them inside then try to move their cages to a shaded area, and drape wet towels over their cage. And always make sure your pets have fresh water

Wet Their Feet:

As cats and dogs don’t sweat, it’s important for us to do what we can to help them regulate their body temperature. Dogs and cats regulate heat through their feet and paws, so dipping their feet in water will help cool them down.

Exercise:

It’s important for our pets to keep active despite how warm or cool it may be, so you may have to adapt their exercise schedule in line with the weather. During the warmer months, it’s a great idea to exercise your animals early in the morning, or in the evening to avoid peak temperatures. Here’s a list of our favourite pet-friendly destination’s in New Zealand if you’re lacking some inspiration!

The Silly Season is upon us!

Posted on December 8, 2016 by Jetpets

We can barely believe it, it’s almost Christmas time! Life can get a bit crazy at this time of the year, with all of the late night shopping and travelling. It’s important to remember that the holiday season is all about spending time with loved ones (and this includes our pets!) Here are a few ways you can celebrate with your pets this silly season.

Check out the Christmas lights:

Visiting your local Christmas lights is one of the best parts of the silly season! Why not bring along your dog while you admire the best Christmas displays? Some houses even provide water and treats for dogs passing by on warm summer nights!

If you’re in Christchurch then you’re in luck. Christchurch is without a doubt, the Christmas lights capital of the Southern hemisphere! Click here to check out your local Christmas lights!

Photoshoot Time:

Christmas is all about spending time with loved ones, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So why not have a photoshoot? Set up your self-timer, or grab a friend and take some family portraits with your pets!

If your pet will let you, dress them up! Grab a Santa hat for your dog, or tie a red ribbon around your cats collar to get them into that festive spirit!

Customise Christmas Cards:

Now that you’ve got some seriously cute family photos, why not customise your own Christmas cards? Your family and friends will no doubt love receiving a cute picture of your pet in the post!

Go Shopping:

Since you’re going to be doing a lot of shopping anyway, you might as well pick up a few gifts for your pets! Cats and dogs can be seriously inquisitive, so they will probably want to help you unwrap some gifts on Christmas day! Buy them their own Christmas stocking and fill it up with treats you know they will love.

Treats:

One of the best parts about Christmas is sharing delicious food with family and friends. Treat your pet on Christmas day and serve up their favourite food or treats! Why not serve up a frozen chicken neck to your dog on a warm Christmas day, or even bake your own pet-friendly cookies.

How do you get your pet involved in Christmas celebrations? Let us know on Facebook!

5 Pet-friendly Destinations in New Zealand (To Head To Now!)

Posted on November 21, 2016 by Jetpets

Whether you’re visiting from overseas or just looking for a weekend getaway, New Zealand has many amazing pet-friendly destinations to discover.

Here are a few of our favourites:

Botanic Gardens – Wellington

The Wellington Botanic Gardens are spread across 25 hectares of protected forest and colorful floral displays. The Botanic Gardens might just be the ultimate pet-friendly destination, with plenty of room to run and play, it’s virtually any dogs dream! Dogs are allowed into the Botanic Gardens all year round, as long as they are on a lead.

A quick car journey through the city’s centre will bring you to Beach Babylon, a café that caters to pups of all shapes and sizes. Order your furry-friend a pupsicle or dogachino after a long day of running around the gardens.

Meola Reef – Auckland

If you’re on the hunt for a great dog park in Auckland, this is definitely one to try! Meola Reef is open to dogs off the lead, all the time, it’s practically a dogs dream playground! Off the lead areas are fenced, so there is no need to worry about those pups that love to run, and run, and run.

Bottle Lake Forest Park – Christchurch

Amongst the hustle and bustle of busy Christchurch is the Bottle Lake Forest Park. Located 10km north of the city centre rests this beautiful protected forest. Entry to the park is free meaning that it’s a great place to visit with your pup all year round. Dogs are welcome in the park as long as they are under effective control.

On the east side of the forest is Waimairi Beach, a great walking spot for humans and their furry friends! Remember to bring a towel with you; otherwise things might get a bit messy.

Hamilton Gardens

Located half way between Auckland and Rotorua, the Hamilton Gardens are a great place to stop off to stretch your legs, and let your pup roam around. The picturesque gardens are a hotspot for local dog lovers, especially in the springtime! Dogs are permitted in all public gardens as long as they are on a lead.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a tourism hotspot, thanks to its geothermal hot springs and its unique landscape. Head to the Whakarewarewa Forest and The Redwoods to experience one of the most stunning walking paths you and the pup have ever seen! If you feel like exploring on your own, take a stroll through several scenic walking tracks. Educational guided tours are also available too

Do you have any favourite pet-friendly spots you’d like us to add to the list? Share them with us on Facebook.

Fun Spring Activities To Do With Your Pet

Posted on October 21, 2016 by Jetpets

Spring has sprung and we are celebrating the warmer weather by taking our pooches outdoors and having some fun in the sun!

There are a great range of fun activities you can do with your furry friend now, from beach walks, doggy playdates and even camping!

We’ve rounded up our favourite activities below.

Have a doggy playdate:

Since the weather has warmed up, it’s time to leave the house and get social! There’s no better way to do that then by bringing along your bestie and their pooch and going on a doggy date. We love heading to a local pet-friendly café or going on a big weekend walk for a catch-up your pets will love.

Head to the beach:

Suns out so it’s time to hit the beach! There are great selections of dog-friendly beaches here in New Zealand so you have countless of options to choose from. Go to your local beach, or make a day of it by packing up the car and taking your canine companion on a beach trip they’ll remember.

Go camping:

If you’ve ever wanted to embrace the outdoors and get back to nature then now is the time. Camping with your pup will make for a fun weekend adventure! Just make sure to select pet-friendly campsites, take plenty of treats, warm clothes (as the nights still tend to be chilly) and make sure there’s enough room in the tent for the two of you!

Go on a hike:

If you want to head outside but are not quite up for a camping trip (just yet) why not go on a hike? There are plenty of great walking tracks for you and your pet in New Zealand which are sure to get your heart rate up! Remember to bring water and snacks for both you and your pooch in case you both need to refuel and recharge.