Top Tips for Identifying Signs of Pain in Your Dog
Learn to recognise the signs of pain and arthritis in your dog with expert guidance from canine massage therapist Mary-Anne Smith at Pets In The City.
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Pet health is built on small daily habits. Feed the right food. Keep meals to set times. Walk every day. Keep core shots like DHPP and Bordetella up to date. Use a vet plan for fleas, ticks and worms. Call your vet if you see big changes in eating, energy or toilet habits.
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Frequently asked questions
What core vaccines does my pet need?
Dogs need DHPP and Bordetella kept up to date. Cats need F3. Bring a recent record to your first visit.
When should I worry about a symptom?
Call your vet if you see a sudden change in eating, drinking, energy, breathing or toilet habits.
How do I keep my dog at a healthy weight?
Measure meals, keep treats small, and walk daily. Ask your vet to score your dog's body shape twice a year.
Is desexing right for my pet?
Most pets do better desexed. Talk to your vet about the best age for your breed and lifestyle.
What about parasites?
Use a vet-led plan for fleas, ticks and worms all year round. Auckland's mild winter means parasites do not pause.
Key terms
Force-free training is defined as a way to teach dogs that uses kindness and rewards. It never uses pain, fear or harsh tools.
Daycare refers to a day at our centre where dogs play, rest and learn in small groups. Trained staff watch every dog.
Boarding is defined as an overnight stay for dogs at our hotel. Each dog has a private rest area and joins group play breaks.
By the numbers
- Started in Auckland in 2006 — 19+ years of pet care
- 5 Auckland centres: Parnell Central Bark, Mt Wellington, Silverdale, Wairau Park and Westgate
- Open 7 days for daycare, hotel stays, grooming and tours
- Every staff member uses kind, force-free care, every day
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Pets In The City — Auckland's premier pet care since 2006, with 5 Auckland locations open 7 days. Email hello@petsinthecity.co.nz.