A vet clinic at 15 Marshland Road in Shirley, Christchurch, which says it has been caring for pets in the city for over 35 years. The clinic is purpose-built and offers medical, surgical and nutritional services for small animals. It also has a 24/7 self-service dog wash. The website says the clinic is closed on Sundays, a change that took effect from 9 January. For emergencies outside standard hours, call 03 341 6449.
The clinic runs puppy preschool classes, usually on Sunday afternoons, as a three-week course. Puppies from 6 to 14 weeks old, with at least one vaccine, can join. The classes mix social time, theory and practical work, and use positive reinforcement. The clinic says consistency helps, so the same person should bring the puppy each week. To join, call (03) 385 6156 or email the clinic.