The number of pet owners here and overseas has been dropping in recent years, thought to be linked to falling home ownership and time commitments.
But a pet sharing service in Nelson is offering a way for people to connect with animals, regardless of circumstance.
"There's a lot of people in New Zealand that are animal lovers, that if whatever reason can't have a pet," explains Share My Pet founder Lilian Wenzel.
"We have a lot of people that are in rental or they're studying or they just financially don't want to commit or time-wise don't."
New Zealand has the second highest rate of pet ownership in the world, with a pet population of about 4.6 million, but in recent years numbers have fallen, following a global trend.
"We've got some new Mums that are just not finding the time for their pets like they used to, or people that travel a lot," Mrs Wenzel said.
Since launching earlier this year, more than 300 people have signed up to the Share My Pet website.
Pet carer Hannah Fergusson, who is studying to become a veterinarian nurse, says it's the perfect solution to her current living situation.
"I'm absolutely animal crazy but I just can't have one of my own," she said.
Now she says she can study "and think 'oh gosh that weather looks so nice on the beach, I'll text someone, ask if I can borrow their dog and be out in the next 15 minutes".
The SPCA says pet sharing sites are becoming more popular, which presents both benefits and risks.
It recommends one regular carer and for owners to be sure pets are getting the welfare they deserve.
Mrs Wenzel says a number of safety measures are in place for Share My Pet and members must be over the age of 18.
"You communicate with each other, you share each others' profiles, what you're looking for in a pet, what experiences you've got.
"And if you get a good feeling from that we recommend that you only meet in a public space ... so you don't give out phone numbers or addresses."
Members pay a yearly subscription fee, with 50 per cent of profits donated to animal charities.
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