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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.

Celebrities & Their Pets

Posted on October 10, 2016 by Jetpets

Here at Jetpets New Zealand we are proud of our celebrities and their success, however what’s really fascinating about them is their pets! From dogs, to cows and even alpacas, there is no denying that these famed celebrities love their furry companions.

Read on below for some of our favourite New Zealand celebrities and their pets.

Russell Crowe:

It’s no secret that famed actor Russell Crowe loves pets and has a particular attachment to his own furry gang, which include his beautiful dogs Chasen, Lucy and Spinee, and a horse named Honey.

But it doesn’t stop there! Russell also owns a farm in a rural area of NSW in Australia, where he has over 500 animals including cows and working dogs (which we don’t doubt he loves just as much!)

Keith Urban:

Much like Russell Crowe, Keith Urban and wife Nicole Kidman also own a farm in Nashville USA, where they look after South American Alpacas! The couple are big fans of exotic and unusual animals and they even take their Alpacas on walks…. because why not?!

Lorde:

International singer Lorde is known around the globe for her popular songs including her mega hit “Royal” however, did you know that she has a family pooch called Jimmy Choo? The Toy Poodle X Lowchen has been part of the family for over 8 years and has even dipped his paws into fame as well, by modelling Karen Walker Eyewear alongside Lorde’s mother Sonja Yelich.

Jay-Jay Feeney and Dom Harvey:

Popular breakfast radio hosts (and husband and wife) Jay-Jay Feeney and Dom Harvey are known both on and off air for their bold personalities and sense of humour, so it’s no wonder their Australian Silky Terrier Kanye is almost as famous as they are! Kanye loves to go on long walks in the evening with his mum and dad, what spoilt pooch doesn’t?

Matilda Rice:

Bachelor star Matilda Rice may be known for her love affair with Art Green, but it seems she has room in her heart for another man… Joey the Border Terrier! At the young age four, Joey is quite a handful for the blonde beauty and we don’t doubt that his energetic personality keeps her on her toes!

Top 6 dog friendly beaches in New Zealand

Posted on September 22, 2016 by Jetpets

There’s nothing quite like a relaxing walk on the beach with your favourite furry friend by your side, and luckily for us, there are plenty of off-leash beaches to explore around the country.

Your pooches are sure to love running in the sand and cooling off with a nice swim while you get to get back to nature!

Unsure where to go? Here are our top 6 favourite dog friendly beaches in New Zealand:

Takapuna Beach, Auckland

Takapuna beach is one of our favourite places as it offers breathtaking views and a whole lot of fun for your dog! In summer the beach limits dogs to be off-leash only before 10am and after 6pm however your dog can run free throughout the rest of the year!

After you’ve been to the beach, why not head to Takapuna Beach Café which is the perfect pet-friendly destination for you and your canine companion.

Lyall Bay, Wellington

If going for a great walk is your aim, then head to Lyall Bay in Wellington – a popular meet-up for dog walkers alike. This surf beach has a great stretch of sand for a big walk and the refreshing ocean is perfect for a quick swim after you’ve worked up a sweat. The only catch is that dogs are not permitted in the area from the steps in the seawall or on the children’s playground.

Piha Beach, Auckland

For breathtaking views you don’t want to miss, take your four-legged friend to the off-leash area in at the North Piha Beach. You can easily notice the dog friendly off-leash area as it is outlined by poles along the beach. Just remember that if your pup isn’t a strong swimmer, it’s best to keep them on-leash as the waves and water can be quite rough.

Waimairi Beach, Christchurch

Get your body moving and go for a run with your dog along Waimairi Beach. You and your dog will love the gorgeous view! However from November 1^st – March 31^st dogs are prohibited on the actual beach, so you will need to head to Bottle Lake Forest Park located just behind the beach.

Bethells Beach (Te Henga), Auckland

If your dog loves to get social with other friendly pups, then head down to Bethells Beach for a game of fetch and a swim in the water! Why not organise a puppy play date with a friend or two and enjoy the breathtaking views and some great bonding time with your dogs?

Brighton Beach Reserve, Dunedin

If you’re looking for a great spot to walk your dog, then Brighton Beach Reserve is the place to go! Your furry friend will love to run around on the sand and cool off in the water with you by their side.

5 Pet Friendly Cafes in Auckland

Posted on September 10, 2016 by Jetpets

One of our favourite ways to spend our weekends here at Jetpets is relaxing at a café with our pooch by our side. Now you too can join in on the fun and sip your latte with your best friend with these pet friendly cafés in Auckland you need to visit now!

Takapuna Beach Café:

If you’re after a leisurely stroll on the beach with your favourite four-legged friend followed by a delicious breakfast or lunch, then head down to Takapuna Beach Café! Dogs will love to run around on the sand and you will both enjoy retiring at the café for a coffee or delicious meal and a big bowl of water for your pet.

22 The Promenade
Takapuna
Auckland, NZ 0622
(09) 484 0002

Orvieto:

Work up a sweat at the off-lead Big King Reserve park just a short distance from this great local café. Reward yourself and your pooch by heading into Orvieto for some delicious eggs on toast, muesli and a big cup of coffee!

935 Mt Eden Road
Mount Eden
Auckland, NZ 1042
(09) 630 5046

Dear Jervois:

Dear Jervois offers plenty of outdoor seating and a water bowl that your dog will just love! Feast on the mouth-watering menu with specialties in all things breakfast, brunch and lunch. Menu highlights include a delicious Acai bowl, Soba noodle salad and cold pressed juices.

234 Jervois Road
Herne Bay, NZ 1011
(09) 376 7278

Hum Bug Café:

Keep your furry friend and kids happy by heading to Hum Bug café! This café is great for relaxing outside in the sun while you treat yourself to everything from porridge, eggs, to a hearty burger and fries.

32 Rua Rd, Glen Eden,
Auckland, NZ 0600
(09) 827 5124

Little & Friday:

This café in Belmont is a great weekend spot for you and your pooch and features a delectable breakfast or brunch menu with food you will be dying to try. The café also has a great range of treats for the sweet-tooth in you that you may just have to share with your dog!

Have we missed any great cafes? Share with us what your favourite pet-friendly café in Auckland is on Facebook.

Why Pets Make You A Better Person

Posted on August 23, 2016 by Jetpets

There’s no denying that pets improve your quality of life, but did you know that they are also making you a better person?

From encouraging you to become more social and fit, to promoting laughter, love and resilience in your everyday life, we’ve rounded up the top ways pets make you a better person below.

They help you cope with difficult times:

There’s something about the unconditional love and acceptance we get from our pets that helps us to build resilience and to cope with many of our everyday struggles. No matter how challenging your day was at work or what’s happening in your life, your pet’s loving face is great motivation to push through challenges and hard times.

They help you to relax:

Sometimes all it takes is for a wagging tail to greet you after a hard day at work to instantly relax you! Other times it may be cuddles on the couch with your furry friend, or a fun weekend hike. No matter the activity, pets are great at lowering our stress levels and encouraging laughter and happiness.

They promote a great social life:

Pets are great for getting you out and about and they help to encourage you to interact with other people and be social. From talking to strangers at the park, to organising puppy play dates, pets are just what you need to help you meet new people and get you out and about.

They make you laugh:

There’s just something about their cute faces and the funny things they get up to that you can’t help but laugh at! Sometimes even just talking about your pet’s antics can instantly brighten your mood. Laughing is a great way to release endorphins and to help lower your stress levels which has amazing mental and physical benefits.

They make you healthier:

Did you know that having pets can actually make you healthier? Pets are known to help reduce blood pressure and lower your stress, thereby reducing your risk of heart disease which results in a longer lifespan.

They get you moving:

If you need some motivation to get out the door and to get active your pet is the perfect companion! Fun activities like walking, running or playing fetch with your dog are ideal ways to get your blood pumping and to work up a sweat! Make it fun by bringing along a friend or trying new and exciting places to get active.

How does your pet make you a better person? Let us know on Facebook.

6 reasons why pets are great for every family

Posted on August 8, 2016 by Jetpets

Here at Jetpets New Zealand, we believe that pets are a great addition to any family! Having a furry family member at home has countless benefits, ranging from teaching children responsibility and providing companionship to supporting family bonding and closeness.

If you’re still undecided about whether or not to bring a new family member into your home, read on for 6 reasons why pets are a great addition to every family.

They teach responsibility:

One of the biggest benefits of having family pets is that they are great for teaching your children responsibility. From an early age, your kids learn how to be responsible for another living being and quickly learn that pets, just like humans, need exercise, food, shelter and love.

They teach kindness and compassion:

Pets are a great way to teach children kindness and compassion through daily activities like patting, cuddling and walking their new friend. They also help to develop children’s non-verbal communication skills by teaching them to display physical affection, love and kindness to their furry companions.

They provide companionship:

Another reason why we love our pets is the unconditional love and friendship they provide throughout our lives. Nothing beats the companionship you get from snuggling up to your pet on a cold winter’s night or taking your dog for a long walk or game of fetch at the park.

They bring the family together:

The inclusion of a new pet into a household is often a great way to bring a family closer together. Pets not only provide a fun topic of conversation around the house but they are an ideal reason to get out and about to do some bonding activities as a family.

Your family could bond with your pet by giving your feline friend cuddles during a family movie night, or you could spend a fun weekend hiking with your pooch and family by your side. The options are endless!

They alleviate loneliness:

After a long day at work or school (for your children), there’s nothing nicer than coming home to a wagging tail or friendly meow as you walk through the door. The company of your four-legged friend is especially great for children who may spend a significant amount of time at home alone when you are away with work and other commitments.

They are great for stress:

Did you know that pets are great for reducing stress and supporting general health? Having cuddles with your animal companion is a great way for families to unwind and relax after a busy day and they are even known to reduce cardiovascular disease and other illnesses!