Adult Dog Care

Vaccinations

Adult dogs require a vaccination every year for Leptosporisis (and Kennel cough if they go to boarding kennels/mix frequently with other dogs) and every 2 years to protect them from Parvovirus, Hepatitis and Distemper. These diseases can be and often are fatal. A health check is recommended every year even if a vaccination is not required to detect problems early such as dental, heart or kidney disease.

Worming

All adult dogs should be wormed every 3 months with an all-wormer such as Popantel.

Flea Treatment

All year round preventative flea treatment is necessary in Northland due to the high environmental challenge. Tick treatment may also be necessary for those dogs living rurally especially during spring.

Nutrition

All dogs need to be fed a diet that is complete and balanced. Check what you are feeding if it does not contain both these words ‘complete and balanced’ then the diet does not contain all the nutrients and vitamins for optimal health. Always feed a diet specific to your pet’s life stage or condition.

Neutering

All dogs should be neutered (unless used for breeding purposes) which helps control the already overburdened animal population as well as preventing health problems.

Microchipping

Microchipping is now compulsory for all dogs born after 2006 except working dogs. Microchipping your dog dramatically increases the chances of you getting your pet back should they get injured/go wandering/or be stolen.