Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy in NZ: A Simple Checklist

The essentials at a glance
Healthy dogs need the right food, movement, mental play and year-round parasite protection. Use this simple checklist and set reminders so nothing gets missed.

Daily habits

• Feed a complete diet suited to age and activity. Measure meals to keep weight steady.

• Fresh water always available.

• Walks or play for 30 to 60 minutes, adjusted to weather and breed.

• Short training bursts. Sit, stay, recall and loose-lead walking.

• Hands-on check. Feel for new lumps, sore spots, grass seeds or ticks after bush tracks, farms or long grass.

Weekly habits

• Brush the coat. Check skin, ears, teeth and nails.

• Wash bedding hot. Vacuum high-use areas and the car.

• Clean food and water bowls.

Monthly and seasonal habits in NZ

• Keep vaccinations and annual vet checks on track.

• In warmer months, do daily tick checks if your dog visits bush, paddocks or long grass.

• In heat, walk early or late, offer shade and avoid hot pavements.

• If you travel to Australia, ask your vet about a heartworm travel plan.

Your parasite protection plan
Pick an application you can give on time, every time. Dose by current weight and read the label each time.

• Broad monthly chew: Simparica Trio chewable tablet for dogs

• Monthly flea and tick chew: Nexgard chewables for dogs

• Long-acting flea and tick chew: Bravecto chew for dogs

• Long-acting spot-on option: Bravecto topical solution for dogs

Simple dosing safety

• Use dog products on dogs only. Never use dog products on cats.

• Match the correct weight band every time.

• Do not split packs between pets.

• Keep spot-ons away from children and other pets until dry.

• If your dog has a health condition, is pregnant or takes other medicines, ask your vet first.

Early warning signs to watch

• Sudden itch, red skin, hair loss or head shaking.

• Vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing or reduced appetite.

• Weakness, wobbliness or change in breathing after a tick is found.
  If you see any of these, book a vet visit.

FAQ

How do I choose between monthly and long-acting
Pick the schedule you can stick to. Monthly suits routine lovers. Long-acting suits busy homes that want fewer dates. Both work when used on time.

Can I combine products
Only under vet guidance. Avoid doubling the same active ingredient.

My dog swims a lot. What should I pick
Chews suit regular swimmers. If you prefer a spot-on, plan doses around swim days and follow the label wait time.

Need help matching a product to your dog
Tell us your dog’s age, weight and routine. We will give clear, practical guidance. Contact us.