Dr Carolina Loch, of Otago University's Faculty of Dentistry, is leading a study to track metal exposure in marine species to help determine pollution in the ocean. / Otago University

As much as we may love them, it's important to be mindful of diseases they could pass on.

The video was viewed more than three million times.

Louis the gorilla doesn't like getting his hands muddy, so he walks like a human.

Rare footage of whales captured in Antarctica. / Supplied by Antarctica NZ

Have you recently acquired a pet bird? Even if you're a seasoned pet owner

Seller also offering a jar of baby rabbits that looks "great when lit up".

Just like humans, dogs donate blood to help save others that are sick or injured.

Denise Sharp talks about blood donations for dogs. / Dean Purcell

Two green sea turtles, Oscar and Kiwa, have been released into the ocean after being rescued from 90 Mile Beach almost two years ago.

Two green sea turtles have been released after being rescued almost two years ago.

Wellington Zoo's red panda cub has left its nest for the first time.

Camera captures a Wellington Zoo red panda cub trying to leave its nest for the first time. / Wellington Zoo

Chewing is a big part of a dog's life: it keeps them entertained

COMMENT: I can't recall any of my kids costing as much to treat as this new puppy.

At least 4 million pets are transported by air each year.

A seagull also had a lucky escape during the incident.

This dog's human-like face is creeping the internet out.

'The only good rabbit is a dead one,' says farmer's daughter as bunnies attack his grave.

"He may be waiting in vain, but the love he feels for his owner is eternal."

COMMENT: The SPCA shouldn't have to apologise for a campaign to protect animals.

Meg returned badly injured five weeks after surviving a car crash.

A 'miracle dog', Meg has had a remarkable survival story and is looking better and is sure to live. Source - Otago Daily Times

An entire breeding season of little blue penguin chicks was wiped out by a New Year storm.

Bindi Irwin has taken on a new role, unlike any you've ever seen her in before.

GRAPHIC CONTENT: Cat needs surgery after bullets lodge in face.

'She taught me how to walk again; now I'll have to teach her how to walk again': owner

Vets have been left in 'disbelief' after coming across puppy in US who faced severe abuse.

It was truly bird-mania at the end of last year in New Zealand

Owners have shared touching photos of their dogs before and after adoption.