The idea of a course on Animal Law was introduced to the Dean of the Canterbury Law School early in 2005. As routinely happens with many new courses, it was decided to introduce the program during Summer School - to see how it would be received by the law students. The course attracted not 10, not 20, not 30 - but 35 students to the class - a record for a new course, great numbers by any standard, but spectacular for Summer School given that there are usually fewer students at university during the November to January period than in the traditional academic year.

The course covered everything shown in (Courses and Seminars). It was especially great to have 3 guest lecturers who added their own very practical insight to the subject. David Rolls (Barrister and Solicitor) and Mark Vincent (Team Leader Animal Control) of the Christchurch City Council gave key insights to the working of the Dog Control Act and dog control in the region. Rod Hay, a scientist with DOC, and the Australasian representative for CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna) gave a brilliant review of the workings of this key international instrument. And Selwyn Dobbinson, member of NAWAC - among many other things - provided a hands-on perspective about the codes of welfare, the committee, and development of a number of animal welfare initiatives in New Zealand.

Participants were predominantly (but not all) senior law students. A large class filled with a great group of people, and plenty of discussion, made for a fantastic class! The feedback from students indicated that they enjoyed it, with one student apparently commenting to the Law School Administration that it was "awesome"! ... the Dean of Canterbury Law School said that the course is on again for Summer School 2006/2007, and, funds permitting, a half year course was also on the cards.

New Zealand's beginnings with Animal Law in academia have been a resounding A+ !