By the time they limp, it’s often too late. Learn the weekly check that catches trouble before it starts.
Gently lift their lips. Are the gums bubblegum pink? Press your finger until they turn white; the colour should snap back in under 2 seconds. Any longer? They might be dehydrated.
Normal 'dog breath' is one thing, but a metallic or overly sweet smell is a warning. It could signal kidney issues or serious decay hiding under that brown tartar.
Use your fingertips to 'spider-crawl' under their jaw and behind their knees. You're looking for pea-sized lumps that feel like hard marbles—these are swollen lymph nodes.
Found a bump? Don't panic. Compare it to an NZ 10-cent coin and take a photo with the coin for scale. It helps your vet track if that lump is actually growing.
Pinch the skin between their shoulder blades and release. It should snap back instantly. If it stays tented or slides back slowly, they need a vet visit immediately.
Gently press their belly. A healthy abdomen feels soft, like a loose water balloon. If they tense up or it feels hard and bloated, they’re in serious distress.
Kiwi parks are full of them. Check between their toes for seeds that burrow in. These tiny hitchhikers cause painful abscesses and infections if left alone.
Is your pet stiff in the mornings? NZ's damp winters are tough on joints. Listen for 'grinding' sounds or feel for resistance when they stretch their legs.
A subtle head bob or a short step is a cry for help. Watch them walk on a flat driveway. If they’re reluctant to put weight down, there's a hidden issue.
If they growl or bolt, stop. Use pieces of cooked chicken or a lick-mat. Make the exam a game of rewards, not a chore. Trust is your best diagnostic tool.
A weekly nose-to-tail exam turns you into the expert on your pet's 'normal'. By finding the baseline today, you prevent the emergency tomorrow.
Get the full step-by-step checklist and learn about local NZ joint remedies like Green-Lipped Mussel.