Seasonal Pet Care in New Zealand: Summer & Winter Tips for Happy, Healthy Pets
When the seasons change, so do your pet’s needs. Whether it’s keeping cool during a scorching Kiwi summer or staying cosy in chilly winter months, Aotearoa’s weather patterns can have a big impact on your furry (or feathery) family members. At Petdirect, we know how much pets are part of the whānau — that's why we’ve created this easy go-to guide to help you care for them year-round.
Here’s your seasonal calendar for pet care in New Zealand, featuring expert advice on keeping your pets happy, hydrated, entertained, and protected as the seasons shift.
Summer Pet Care Tips For NZ
New Zealand summers bring warmer days, longer daylight hours, and lots of outdoor adventures. But they also come with higher risks of heat stress, sunburn, and dehydration for pets.
- Hydration is key: Always provide fresh, clean water. Consider using smart water fountains to keep it circulating and cool.
- Sun safety: Short-haired dogs and certain breeds, like the Whippet or Chinese Crested, can be more prone to sunburn. Provide shade and avoid midday walks.
- Flea and tick prevention: With pests more active in summer, make sure your pet is protected with flea and worm treatments.
- Cooling tools: Treat your pet to summer essentials like cooling mats and breathable bedding.
- Never leave pets in hot cars: Even a few minutes in a parked car can be fatal during summer months.
Winter Pet Care Tips For NZ
Winter across New Zealand varies from frosty mornings down south to damp, chilly nights up north. Pets, just like us, feel the drop in temperature — especially kittens, puppies, seniors, and short-coated breeds.
- Create a cosy retreat: Invest in winter warmers like snuggly beds and blankets to keep them warm indoors.
- Stay active indoors: Try interactive toys or training games to keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated when it's too cold to go out.
- Bundle up for walks: Fit your pooch with winter dog clothing to keep them snug on chilly outings.
- Joint care: Cold weather can aggravate joint stiffness, particularly in older pets. Support them with joint supplements.
- Stick to routine: Keep up with regular feeding, hygiene, and healthcare, even if the days feel shorter and slower.
Quality Nutrition Year-Round
Different seasons may call for adjustments in your pet’s diet. During summer, lighter meals or meal toppers can help with hydration and appetite. Come winter, some pets benefit from diets that offer more energy or support joint health. Explore our vet-trusted brands like Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet or Pro Plan to find what’s best for your furry friend’s unique needs.
Health & Grooming Across The Seasons
Staying on top of your pet's health all year round helps them feel their best, rain or shine.
- Skin & coat care: Use skin and coat supplements or grooming products to manage seasonal shedding and dryness.
- Anxiety support: Seasonal changes and weather can affect pets emotionally too. Try calming essentials if your dog or cat becomes skittish during thunderstorms or cold snaps.
- Regular health checks: Keep vaccinations, parasite treatments and dental care on schedule — year-round protection is key.
We Get Pet — Every Season
At Petdirect, we understand that pets aren’t just animals — they’re family. That’s why we stock seasonal essentials, hydration helpers, nutrition must-haves, and playful picks to keep your furry, feathery, or finned friends happy and healthy in every season. Don’t forget to take advantage of our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints with every order!
With Autodeliver, you’ll never run out of essentials — even when the weather’s wild. Set it and forget it for worry-free seasonal pet care.
A Year Of Pet Wellbeing
Being ready for summer heatwaves and winter chills means a happier, healthier pet—and a more relaxed pet parent. By adapting your care with the seasons, you ensure your pet stays comfortable, safe, and loved all year round. From top-rated picks to expert advice, count on Petdirect to have your back.