Pet Topics: Basic Pet Care and Hygiene

Caring for a pet is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities. Ensuring your pet is healthy, clean and comfortable is vital to their well-being, writes Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director at Te Are Manu Veterinary Clinic.

Regular nail trimming is essential for your pet’s health and comfort. Overgrown nails can be painful, make walking difficult, and can even lead to infection if the nail breaks or grows into the paw pad. Depending on your pet’s activity level, nails may need to be trimmed every 3-4 weeks.

When trimming your pet’s nails, use a special pet nail clipper. Gently press on the paw to extend the nail, then trim only the tip, avoiding cutting live flesh – this is a sensitive area that contains blood vessels and nerves. If you are unsure how to trim your pet’s nails yourself, you can book an appointment at Te Are Manu to trim your pet’s nails.

Maintaining your pet’s coat is essential to keep it clean, tangle-free, and free of skin irritation. The type and frequency of coat care depends on the length of your pet’s coat. Regular grooming helps remove loose hair, dirt, and prevents tangles. Short-haired pets may only require occasional grooming, while long-haired animals usually require daily grooming. Some pets, especially those with long or curly hair, may need regular trimming to prevent excessive growth or tangles. Trimming can be done at home with the right tools or by a professional grooming service.

When combing or trimming, always check for any unusual lumps, bumps, or signs of skin irritation. If you notice anything unusual, always consult your veterinarian.

Fleas and worms are common parasites that can cause considerable discomfort and health problems for your pet. Preventive treatments are essential to keep these pests at bay.

Check your pet regularly for fleas by combing its fur and looking for tiny black specks (flea droppings) or live fleas. There are a variety of flea treatments available, including topical solutions, oral medications and flea collars. Be sure to use a product that is appropriate for your pet’s species, age and weight. All of these products are available at Te Are Manu.

Pets can also be infected with different types of worms, including roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Deworming treatments should be performed every three months.

When you groom your pet, keep an eye out for skin problems like rashes, redness, bald spots, or lesions. These could be symptoms of allergies, infection, or other health issues.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to bring your pet to Te Are Manu for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.