Pets

How to pick your perfect pet

Dogs have rapidly become everyone’s lockdown best friends.

If you feel like you’re seeing a lot more dogs around your neighbourhood, you’d be right. The most recent Companion Animals in New Zealand report revealed rates of dog ownership are on the rise, with more than a third of Kiwi households owning at least one, a trend only accelerated by the pandemic.

With benefits of dog ownership including reduction in loneliness and stress, a boost in mood and a motivation to exercise, it’s no surprise four-legged friends have become popular in lockdown.

SPCA New Zealand has noticed a nationwide increase in foster enquiries this spring, with its Mangere Centre in Auckland alone receiving an unprecedented 71 applications from new families the first month after we went to level 4.

However, adopting a pup is for life, not just a pandemic. NEXGARD SPECTRA recommends considering the following to ensure you get the right pooch for you:

Puppy love or loyal old mate?

There’s no denying the snuggly appeal of a tiny, fluffy bundle full of curiosity and fun. Alternatively, older dogs already know the rules, so there is less need for toilet and obedience training, plus they tend to be more settled.

The perfect fit

If you don’t have your heart set on a particular breed, think about which will best suit your lifestyle. Labrador retrievers top the popularity stakes in New Zealand as owners are drawn to their sweet, affectionate nature and boundless energy. You may be keen on a smaller pup who can jump on your lap for cuddles or one who will join you jogging each day. Don’t feel you have to go to a breeder – your ideal fur baby could be waiting in your local animal shelter.

Stand to attention!

We all know dogs love attention and who can resist that look of devotion whenever you return home? So consider how you can best integrate your pup into your daily routine. “Pawternity leave” is becoming a popular workplace request and increasingly employers are launching bring-your-pet-to-work days. With NEXGARD SPECTRA on the case, you’ll know your dog is well protected for all adventures.

Family time

The kids will be fizzing at the prospect of a four-legged playmate, so ensure they’re well prepped by telling them what to expect and explaining how to behave around a growing dog. By keeping your pup protected from fleas, ticks and worms with NEXGARD SPECTRA, you’ll keep your whānau safe too.

Put the paws on pests

Unfortunately, where dogs go, pet parasites follow. Fleas, ticks and worms cause your fur baby considerable discomfort, and can lead to serious health conditions. Happily, you can easily save your four-legged friend from the pain of an infestation with a single, monthly, tasty chew from NEXGARD SPECTRA, the experts in pet pest control.

Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health New Zealand Limited. Level 3, 2 Osterley Way, Manukau, Auckland, New Zealand | NEXGARD SPECTRA® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health France. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997 | No. A011184 | ©Copyright 2021 NZ-CAN-0062-2021.

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