Daily 60-Second Tick Check for NZ Pets

Why daily checks matter
Ticks show up after time in long grass, bush and farm paddocks. A quick hands-on check helps you find and remove them early. Keep prevention on time as well. Checks do not replace prevention.

Before you start

• Good light and calm handling.

• Run fingertips over the skin, not just the coat.

• Have a tick remover or fine tweezers ready.

• Take off collars or harnesses so you can see the skin.

The 60-second nose-to-tail routine

1. Nose and muzzle. Around lips and under the chin.

2. Eyes and cheeks. Eyelids, brows and where the ear meets the head.

3. Ears. Inside, outside and behind each ear.

4. Neck and collar line. Part the coat to the skin.

5. Chest and front legs. Armpits and between the toes.

6. Belly and groin. Thin-haired areas are easy to scan.

7. Back, tail base and under the tail.

8. Back legs and between toes again.

If you find a tick

• Use a tick remover or fine tweezers held close to the skin.

• Pull straight out with steady pressure.

• Keep the tick in a bag or container if your vet wants to see it.

• Watch your pet. If you notice wobbliness, vomiting, weakness or breathing changes, contact a vet at once.

Prevention that fits Kiwi homes
Choose an application you can give on time, every time. Match the correct weight band and read the label.

• Dogs, monthly flea and tick chew: Nexgard chewables for dogs

• Dogs, long-acting flea and tick chew: Bravecto chew for dogs

• Cats, broad monthly spot-on with tick cover: Revolution Plus spot-on for cats

• Cats, long-acting flea and tick spot-on: Bravecto spot-on for cats

Bathing, swimming and grooming
If you use a spot-on, apply to clean, dry skin and let it dry fully. Follow the label for how long to wait before bathing or swimming. Brush around, not through, the application site for the first day or two.

Simple safety tips

• Weigh your pet and choose the correct pack each time.

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

• Do not combine treatments unless your vet advises it.

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

• Ask your vet first if your pet has a health condition, is pregnant or is on other meds.

FAQ

How often should I do tick checks
Daily in warmer months and after any bush or paddock time. Keep prevention on schedule.

Do short-haired pets still need checks
Yes. Ticks can attach to any coat length.

Can a bath remove a tick
No. You still need to remove the tick with a remover or tweezers.

Need help choosing prevention
Tell us your pet’s age, weight and routine and we will suggest a simple plan. Contact us.