Regional road trips with pets: parasite guide
Introduction
Road trips mean changing weather, wildlife, and stop-overs. That shifts parasite risk. A simple plan keeps protection steady so you can enjoy the drive.
Before you leave
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Dose a few days early so protection is active
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Pack the next dose if the due date falls mid-trip
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Re-weigh and confirm the correct weight band
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Add a tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers to the kit
On the road
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Keep products cool and dry in the glovebox, not the dash
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Rinse sand and dust from coats after beach or bush stops
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Evening tick check in risk regions: lips, ear edges, under collar, armpits, groin, between toes, tail base
Motels, stations and holiday parks
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Vacuum travel mats and shake out blankets
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Hot wash bedding when you hit a laundry and dry well
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Keep food sealed and bins lidded to deter wildlife visitors
Rural and coastal detours
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Ask a local clinic about current tick pressure
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Avoid long grass and dense scrub at dusk
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Tip out standing water around camps to cut mosquitoes
Products we trust
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Dogs: Bravecto Chew for Dogs — long-acting flea and tick control, fewer dates to remember
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Dogs: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs — monthly protection that also provides heartworm prevention and common intestinal worms when used as directed
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Dogs: NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly fleas and ticks that suit simple calendars
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Cats: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly broad cover when used as directed
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Cats: Bravecto Spot-On for Cats — long-acting flea and tick control
Safety basics
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Dog products for dogs, cat products for cats
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Match current weight band and minimum age
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Avoid stacking preventatives unless your vet advises
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Keep cats away from recently treated dogs if the dog label advises it
FAQ
We cross low and high tick areas. Which plan do we follow?
Use prevention suited to the highest risk on your route. Dose before you leave and pack the next dose. For a route-specific plan, tell us your stops and pet details — contact us.
Also in Dr. Feargus’ Australian Pet Health Blog
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A simple Australian guide to brushing your dog or cat’s teeth. What you need, step‑by‑step instructions, and when to see your vet.
How often should you treat your dog for fleas in Australia?
A simple schedule for flea prevention in Australian dogs. What to use, how long to treat, and how to stay on time—even if you already have fleas at home.
Travelling tradies with dogs: parasite guide
A road-ready parasite plan for tradies and their dogs. Ute and site hygiene, packing list, dose timing, and trusted product picks.
