The pawfect life
Keeping your pets happy, healthy and protected
sponsored content with NexGard Spectra
Kiwis love their pets. Whether it’s dogs joining family adventures or cats curling up on the couch, our furry friends are at the heart of our homes. They’re companions, confidants, and sources of joy – which makes protecting them from hidden threats a top priority.
Parasites like fleas, ticks and worms may seem small, but they can cause big problems. Beyond itching and irritation, they can spread serious diseases to pets and sometimes even to people. As we spend more time close to our pets – snuggling on the sofa or sharing the bed – it’s more important than ever to keep them safe.
That’s where vet-recommended NEXGARD SPECTRA® steps in, delivering Next Level Parasite Protection for cats and dogs. With simple monthly care, you can protect the ones you love and enjoy peace of mind. And right now, you can enter the draw to win a prize pack designed with comfort and care in mind.
Why parasite protection matters
Parasites don’t take a holiday. In New Zealand’s mild, often humid climate, fleas, ticks, and worms can thrive all year round. Even indoor cats and urban dogs are at risk. Fleas can easily be picked up from other animals or outdoor spaces, ticks latch on during bush walks or camping trips, and worms may be transferred through soil, prey animals or even shared environments like sandpits.
The consequences can go far beyond scratching or the occasional upset tummy. Some parasitic infections can be serious or even life threatening for our pets. A number of parasites that affect pets can also spread to humans, posing real risks to children, older adults, or anyone with a weakened immune system.
Despite this, research by NexGard shows many New Zealand pets are not receiving the level of protection that their lifestyle warrants*. The data suggests that on average, cats and dogs here are protected against parasites for between 1 and 3 months a year, far below the recommended monthly care. That means long stretches where pets are unprotected, exposing them and their families to unnecessary risks.
Providing regular protection is more than a practical step; it’s an act of love and responsibility. Just as we keep vaccinations up to date and offer good food and exercise, consistent parasite protection helps pets to live their best, healthiest lives.
This black and white tuxedo beauty is like a "5th wheel" for reader Michael Burt, joining him on off-lead walks!
This black and white tuxedo beauty is like a "5th wheel" for reader Michael Burt, joining him on off-lead walks!
Justine Hawtin says "Bambi the Pom" wants to protect not just her household but the entire neighbourhood. Bambi has an amazing understanding of her family's speech and they all understand her replies.
Justine Hawtin says "Bambi the Pom" wants to protect not just her household but the entire neighbourhood. Bambi has an amazing understanding of her family's speech and they all understand her replies.
Minnie Me loves investigating anything up high, and she's a super affectionate companion to reader Janita Anderson.
Minnie Me loves investigating anything up high, and she's a super affectionate companion to reader Janita Anderson.
This very good boy Bentley loves his owner Nuwani Perera and whanau unconditionally, greeting everyone when they come home. He loves sleeping, eating and walking with his family.
This very good boy Bentley loves his owner Nuwani Perera and whanau unconditionally, greeting everyone when they come home. He loves sleeping, eating and walking with his family.
Blessie (Blessinda) is a retired Burmese Queen from a remote off the grid breeder in the beautiful Coromandel. Owner Tracy Kendall says Blessie is "my ‘Covid lockdown blessing’ as we acquired her during the pandemic."
Blessie (Blessinda) is a retired Burmese Queen from a remote off the grid breeder in the beautiful Coromandel. Owner Tracy Kendall says Blessie is "my ‘Covid lockdown blessing’ as we acquired her during the pandemic."
This very good boy is a Bull rescue and brings his family great joy. Owner Angela Neal says it's pretty next level how chatty, cuddly and dramatic he can be!
This very good boy is a Bull rescue and brings his family great joy. Owner Angela Neal says it's pretty next level how chatty, cuddly and dramatic he can be!
Nala went missing for three years when she moved house with owner Kathy Hassed. She's now back with the family and sleeps on their bed every night!
Nala went missing for three years when she moved house with owner Kathy Hassed. She's now back with the family and sleeps on their bed every night!
Fighting like cats and dogs? Not these two... Goofy American Staffordshire X Cassius is best friends with moggie BearBear who he personally picked from the litter of her mother. A 'lion' with a heart of gold is how owner Kaitlyn describes Cassius.
Fighting like cats and dogs? Not these two... Goofy American Staffordshire X Cassius is best friends with moggie BearBear who he personally picked from the litter of her mother. A 'lion' with a heart of gold is how owner Kaitlyn describes Cassius.
Bear was adopted from care in Keri Keri and was terrified of the water when he went to his forever home. But owner Margie Donald says he now loves spending time at the beach!
Bear was adopted from care in Keri Keri and was terrified of the water when he went to his forever home. But owner Margie Donald says he now loves spending time at the beach!
"Peekaboo!" says this always-curious friend to owner Chris Wright.
"Peekaboo!" says this always-curious friend to owner Chris Wright.
Making pet care simple
Protecting pets doesn’t need to be complicated. NEXGARD SPECTRA® makes parasite prevention easy, with one comprehensive monthly treatment tailored to cats and dogs.
For dogs: NEXGARD SPECTRA Chewables for Dogs – a tasty, beef-flavoured chew that feels more like a treat than a treatment.
For cats: NEXGARD SPECTRA Spot-On for Cats – a simple, no-fuss, topical application that delivers all-in-one protection.
Both are vet-recommended and cover the broadest spectrum of parasites, meaning NEXGARD SPECTRA is a thorough parasite protection, all in one monthly dose. By treating monthly, pet owners can ensure consistent protection against fleas, ticks, mites and intestinal worms.
The benefits are immediate and lasting:
- All-in-one convenience – no juggling multiple products.
- Peace of mind – knowing your pet is well protected.
- Next Level Parasite Protection –the most complete parasite protection available, in one easy, monthly dose.
Imagine a summer where your dog can roam the campsite and you’re not worried about ticks, or a winter where your cat can snuggle in bed without hidden threats. With NEXGARD SPECTRA, you’re not just treating parasites – you’re safeguarding the special bond you share with your pet.
This city dog quickly turns to farm dog, going from white to green in and instant after discovering steer poo, says owner Maria Lindsay
This city dog quickly turns to farm dog, going from white to green in and instant after discovering steer poo, says owner Maria Lindsay
Nikki Stepkowski says her cat is so beautiful, she just had to share a pic of her.
Nikki Stepkowski says her cat is so beautiful, she just had to share a pic of her.
Katherine Hartwig's nine year old Burmese Chocolate Tortishell Mailah has a strong personality and her pasttimes include trekking outdoors, napping, and doing forward roly-polys.
Katherine Hartwig's nine year old Burmese Chocolate Tortishell Mailah has a strong personality and her pasttimes include trekking outdoors, napping, and doing forward roly-polys.
Maybe because there’s five of these beauties, but there’s always something happening at reader Dionne Nicolai;s house.
Maybe because there’s five of these beauties, but there’s always something happening at reader Dionne Nicolai;s house.
Dominique de Bourgue's cat Ninja may have actually been one in a previous life they think! He's fiery, not afraid to provoke otheir springer spaniel and there is no way he's prepared to let anyone get between him and his carrots.
Dominique de Bourgue's cat Ninja may have actually been one in a previous life they think! He's fiery, not afraid to provoke otheir springer spaniel and there is no way he's prepared to let anyone get between him and his carrots.
Introducing Jet - who owner David Robinson says is a massive fluff ball, who can't walk him anywhere without people stopping to say "Hi".
Introducing Jet - who owner David Robinson says is a massive fluff ball, who can't walk him anywhere without people stopping to say "Hi".
Ruby is sassy and full of personality. From arguing with the volunteers at the rescue shelter for treats to sassing the dogs through the window; she makes her presence KNOWN! Despite this, she loves a good stretch and cuddle, even when mum Bree Freeman is meant to be studying...
Ruby is sassy and full of personality. From arguing with the volunteers at the rescue shelter for treats to sassing the dogs through the window; she makes her presence KNOWN! Despite this, she loves a good stretch and cuddle, even when mum Bree Freeman is meant to be studying...
This "headless" beauty Maeve can always identify the sound of the treat bucket. Born into a feral colony she's now a happy convert to a spoilt house cat for owner Caitlin.
This "headless" beauty Maeve can always identify the sound of the treat bucket. Born into a feral colony she's now a happy convert to a spoilt house cat for owner Caitlin.
Owner Kathryn Taylor says this beauty Luna is super friendly, coming from miles away if you whistle her. Shealso likes to closely follow people on walks, and talks back in a variety of little "cheetah like" chirps.
Owner Kathryn Taylor says this beauty Luna is super friendly, coming from miles away if you whistle her. Shealso likes to closely follow people on walks, and talks back in a variety of little "cheetah like" chirps.
Jennie Evett says Buddy is a liar and thief in a beautiful bundle. Rescued from the mean streets of suburban Christchurch he repays the family by stealing their steaks, terrorising their other pets and biting her on the butt. He once wore an food delivery bag as a cape after (presumably) stealing someone's order!
Jennie Evett says Buddy is a liar and thief in a beautiful bundle. Rescued from the mean streets of suburban Christchurch he repays the family by stealing their steaks, terrorising their other pets and biting her on the butt. He once wore an food delivery bag as a cape after (presumably) stealing someone's order!
Win comfort and care for your pets
To celebrate the launch of their “Next Level” campaign, NEXGARD SPECTRA is giving away four prize packs – the perfect mix of comfort and protection.
Each month in October and November, there will be one dog winner and one cat winner.
Dog prize: An outdoor camping dog bed, perfect for adventures, plus a six-month supply of NEXGARD SPECTRA for Dogs.
Cat prize: A heated cat blanket for cosy nights, plus a six-month supply of NEXGARD SPECTRA for Cats.
That means fourlucky pet owners will enjoy a package that combines practical parasite protection with a little extra love and comfort for their furry friend.
Entering is simple – just click through to the competition page, fill in your details, and you’ll be in the draw. Whether your pet is a loyal hiking buddy or a couch-loving companion, these prizes are designed to make their lives even better.
Sumit Narayan says Loki is next level because he’s not just a cat—he’s a gentle-hearted shadow who follows you with quiet devotion, always ready to curl up beside you and melt your stress away with one look from those soulful green eyes.
Sumit Narayan says Loki is next level because he’s not just a cat—he’s a gentle-hearted shadow who follows you with quiet devotion, always ready to curl up beside you and melt your stress away with one look from those soulful green eyes.
Reader Pete Curtin submitted his cute cat is she is always looking for unusual places to hide from - where she lays plans to attack out dog😂
Reader Pete Curtin submitted his cute cat is she is always looking for unusual places to hide from - where she lays plans to attack out dog😂
Carl Ahlfield says Meg is a loyal loving miniature schnauzer who loves long walks up the Port Hills with him and is the best friend that anyone could have beside them while enjoying the wonderful scenery.
Carl Ahlfield says Meg is a loyal loving miniature schnauzer who loves long walks up the Port Hills with him and is the best friend that anyone could have beside them while enjoying the wonderful scenery.
Owner Cristy says this cute little furball always cuddles up to her, gives lots of kisses and is great with kids.
Owner Cristy says this cute little furball always cuddles up to her, gives lots of kisses and is great with kids.
Owner Amanda DeRitter says: "Having discovered that Chocolate labs and black labs are completely different types of dogs, there is a reason that there are no chocolate lab guide dogs... but Oliver loves to bring a toy everytime he sees you and despite being terrified of the cat is always keen to please."
Owner Amanda DeRitter says: "Having discovered that Chocolate labs and black labs are completely different types of dogs, there is a reason that there are no chocolate lab guide dogs... but Oliver loves to bring a toy everytime he sees you and despite being terrified of the cat is always keen to please."
This beauty is reader Lesley Drakeford's best companion since my husband died at the young age of 61 - never leaving my side
This beauty is reader Lesley Drakeford's best companion since my husband died at the young age of 61 - never leaving my side
Owner Seamus Seeley says Trixie is such a gorgeous and affectionate cat - and loves to snuggle up next to me, give him cuddle and lick his face.
Owner Seamus Seeley says Trixie is such a gorgeous and affectionate cat - and loves to snuggle up next to me, give him cuddle and lick his face.
Sara Arblaster says Cookie is a cuddle monster - a love bug who’s not scared to explore and seat up her big brother Loki. Here she is on her first day out side. Looking out over her new kingdom
Sara Arblaster says Cookie is a cuddle monster - a love bug who’s not scared to explore and seat up her big brother Loki. Here she is on her first day out side. Looking out over her new kingdom
Nova (short for Supernova the abominable Snow-Va) is a completely deaf kitty who loves when owner Aleshia plays the guitar (she’s all about the vibes - literally), battling the vacuum which she isn’t scared of because she can’t hear it and a lap to curl up on.
Nova (short for Supernova the abominable Snow-Va) is a completely deaf kitty who loves when owner Aleshia plays the guitar (she’s all about the vibes - literally), battling the vacuum which she isn’t scared of because she can’t hear it and a lap to curl up on.
Reader Sveltana says Koshka is next level. He greets her at the door every day, snuggles close when she's sick, and never misses dinner time—always expecting his beloved Kangaroo meat. His loyalty, warmth, and precision make him more than a pet; he’s her constant companion and quiet support through every moment.
Reader Sveltana says Koshka is next level. He greets her at the door every day, snuggles close when she's sick, and never misses dinner time—always expecting his beloved Kangaroo meat. His loyalty, warmth, and precision make him more than a pet; he’s her constant companion and quiet support through every moment.
Protect the ones you love
Our pets give us unconditional love every day. Repaying that love means keeping them safe from the threats they can’t see. With vet-recommended NEXGARD SPECTRA, comprehensive monthly parasite protection is easy. It’s the next level of care – and a simple way to show just how much you love them.
Protect your pet today, and enter now for the chance to win comfort, care, and peace of mind.
See product labels for full claim details and directions for use. NEXGARD SPECTRA® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health France, used under license. ACVM Registration Nos. A011184 and A011852.
*Industry reported sales data MAT to Q2 2025, and cat and dog population data BI data on file.
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