Why do we have pets? Wigram Vet & The Good Dog Spa

“I am certain that almost as soon as man began to walk this earth, we also began our long association with other creatures. These encounters soon developed into close animal-human relationships that we would describe today as having pets,” says Geoff Mehrtens of the Wigram Vet and The Good Dog Spa.     “There are […]

Fur-ever friends

Dogs of all ages and breeds are saved at Dogwatch, a Christchurch charity which has been rehoming abandoned and surrendered dogs for 35 years – with no government or council funding. Need for its services, and forever homes for its hounds, is showing no signs of subsiding.     From its five-acre, purpose-built adoption centre […]

Picture paw-fect: Charli & Coco

With the weather changing, now is the time to think of your pet’s needs over the coming cooler months. With limited quantities from some international suppliers, it really will be a case of first in, best dressed (and bedded).     Charli & Coco unquestionably have the largest range of décor friendly beds with an […]

Fluffies for fluffies: Fluffies for fluffies

The aptly named Central Bark Café is a haven for customers who wish to relax, indulge and meet likeminded pet owners. Locally owned and operated by Cantabrian Linda Ashworth, her goal is to create a destination café like no other in Christchurch.   Here you’ll not only find a tempting cabinet bursting with fluffy cheese […]

Walk-in wash: Barking Clean

When dog lover Maria Court’s new puppy Zoe came with a few unexpected health issues and very sensitive skin, she became determined to find products that would be suitable for her furry friend. And so, the idea of Barking Clean Self-Service Dog Wash was born.     The standalone units are large, elevated stainless-steel tubs […]

In dogs we trust

The bond between human and dog is unmatched. And when a dog’s role is to help their person, intriguing tales are to be told. Love for animals was Sue Allison’s inspiration to write the book Friends Indeed: Assist Dogs and Their People. However, it was the human connections that captured her heart.     The […]

Food for thought: Charli & Coco

As Michelle Freeman and her daughter Charli began to expand their pet family, they became increasingly concerned about the unnecessary and extensive use of plastic packaging particularly with regards to pet food and treats. And as a result, Charli & Coco was established.     As a way of reducing waste, the luxury pet boutique […]

Are routine blood tests helpful for your pet? Wigram Vet and the Good Dog Spa

Wigram Vet and the Good Dog Spa’s Geoff Mehrtens tells Metropol how screening blood tests can greatly enhance a vet’s understanding of your pet’s health and uncover many underlying illnesses. Blood tests make a difference to cats’ and dogs’ wellbeing, sometimes a lifesaving difference. “Blood tests are great value for money and vets love having […]

Puppy School Paw-fection: Ourvets

A passion for dogs and their good behaviour drives Sarah Ryan, Veterinary Nurse at Ourvets St Albans. With 15 years as a vet nurse under her belt, Sarah knows what makes our canine friends tick – right from puppyhood.   At Ourvets St Albans Sarah runs The Puppy Club – puppy training classes that are […]

A local favourite: The Ivy

If you’re looking for a reason to venture over to Sumner, we have just the place for you. The Ivy continues to be a local favourite after six years in business, and just by one visit it’s easy to see why – being greeted by Karen and her faithful golden retriever makes for a pleasant […]