Moving house with pets in New Zealand: parasite checklist

Introduction

Moves disrupt routines and new places can hide flea stages from previous pets. A short plan keeps dogs and cats protected while you unpack. Prepared with input from our lead vet and founder, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.

Before moving day

Start by locking in your dose dates. Put the next one in your phone and keep products where you won’t lose them during the pack-up. Re-weigh pets so you buy the right weight band. If you’re changing regions or heading closer to bush and coast, add a tick tool to your essentials box.

Quick prep list

• Products in the correct size, stored cool and dry

• A note of each pet’s weight band and due date

• Tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers

• Updated microchip and vet details

First week in the new place

Day one is about coverage: treat every pet with a product matched to species, age and weight. Over the next seven days, vacuum rugs, skirting, sofa seams and car mats, then empty the vacuum outside. Hot-wash the bedding your pet actually sleeps on and dry it thoroughly. Declutter sleeping spots so clean-ups are fast.

Yard and balcony tips

Think airflow and sunlight. Short grass and trimmed shrubs make tick checks easier. Tip out standing water in pot saucers to cut mosquitoes. On balconies, keep plants lifted so water doesn’t pool around bases, and air any travel mats in the sun.

Keep routine during the chaos

Tie dose day to something you won’t miss, like rent day. If you use a long-acting option, set a mid-interval reminder. If a dose is missed, give it when you remember and reset the schedule from that date.

Products we trust

• Dogs (monthly all-in-one): Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs

• Dogs (monthly fleas & ticks): NexGard Chewables for Dogs

• Dogs (longer-acting fleas & ticks): Bravecto Chew for Dogs

• Dogs (on-pet option): Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs

• Cats (broad monthly): Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats

• Cats (longer-acting fleas & ticks): Bravecto Spot-On for Cats

• Cats (simple monthly): Revolution Topical Solution for Cats

Safety basics

• Dog products for dogs, cat products for cats

• Match current weight band and minimum age

• Avoid stacking different preventatives unless your vet advises

FAQ

We found fleas after moving in. What now?
Dose every pet, vacuum daily for a week, hot-wash bedding, then shift to a weekly rhythm for three months while hidden stages clear.

Travel delayed our due date. Should we double-dose?
No. Give the missed dose once and reset your reminder from that date.

Want a move-in plan tailored to your pets and layout?
We’ll map it with you one-to-one — contact us.