Flea control for dogs that hike in the bush in New Zealand

Introduction

Bush tracks, long grass and scrubby edges raise tick exposure, especially after warm rain. Keep prevention on schedule and add quick hands-on checks so hikes stay comfortable.

Trail habits that help

Carry a small kit in the pack: tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers, wipes, spare towel. After the walk, rinse mud and leaf litter, then towel dry to the skin. Shake out crate or car rugs and air them in the sun.

Two-minute tick check

• Lips and chin, ear edges, under the collar

• Armpits and groin

• Between toes and around pads

• Tail base

Home rhythm after busy weeks

Vacuum rugs and sofa seams and empty the vacuum outside. Hot-wash bedding and favourite blankets and dry thoroughly. If you saw fleas, keep a weekly clean going for three months while hidden stages clear.

Scheduling made easy

Choose a house dose day you can keep all year. Treat every dog in the home on the same date and add a phone reminder. Re-weigh active dogs often to confirm the right band.

Products we trust

• Monthly fleas and ticks: NexGard Chewables for Dogs

• Monthly all-in-one: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs

• Longer-acting fleas and ticks: Bravecto Chew for Dogs

• Collar option: Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs

Safety basics

• Match species, weight band and minimum age

• Do not stack preventives unless your vet advises

• Check collar fit weekly on active dogs and trim excess

FAQ

We hike every weekend and still find the odd tick
That can happen in busy seasons. Stay on time and keep the nightly check going.
Do we need sprays for the track or car
Most families manage with steady dosing, quick checks and clean, dry mats.
Want a trail plan matched to your routes and season
Tell us your usual tracks and we will map it with you — contact us.