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
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Feed a complete diet suited to age and activity. Measure meals to keep weight steady.
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Fresh water always available.
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Walks or play for 30 to 60 minutes, adjusted to weather and breed.
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Short training bursts. Sit, stay, recall and loose-lead walking.
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Hands-on check. Feel for new lumps, sore spots, grass seeds or ticks after bush tracks, farms or long grass.
Weekly habits
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Brush the coat. Check skin, ears, teeth and nails.
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Wash bedding hot. Vacuum high-use areas and the car.
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Clean food and water bowls.
Monthly and seasonal habits in NZ
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Keep vaccinations and annual vet checks on track.
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In warmer months, do daily tick checks if your dog visits bush, paddocks or long grass.
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In heat, walk early or late, offer shade and avoid hot pavements.
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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.
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Broad monthly chew: Simparica Trio chewable tablet for dogs
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Monthly flea and tick chew: Nexgard chewables for dogs
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Long-acting flea and tick chew: Bravecto chew for dogs
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Long-acting spot-on option: Bravecto topical solution for dogs
Simple dosing safety
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Use dog products on dogs only. Never use dog products on cats.
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Match the correct weight band every time.
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Do not split packs between pets.
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Keep spot-ons away from children and other pets until dry.
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If your dog has a health condition, is pregnant or takes other medicines, ask your vet first.
Early warning signs to watch
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Sudden itch, red skin, hair loss or head shaking.
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Vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing or reduced appetite.
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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.
