VetsOne Hastings

23/06/2026

Skin & Coat Care in Winter

As the heaters come on and the air gets drier, many Kiwi pets start to feel the effects in their skin and coat.

Winter can lead to dryness, flakiness, dull coats, and itchiness — especially for pets with allergies or sensitive skin. Heat pumps and fireplaces pull moisture from the air, and pets spending more time indoors can develop irritation from dust, bedding, or simply from lying in the same warm spots all day.

Regular brushing helps spread natural oils, while avoiding over‑bathing prevents stripping the skin of moisture. If you notice dandruff, redness, a musty smell, or your pet scratching more than usual, it may be a sign their skin needs a little extra support.

We can help with soothing shampoos, omega supplements, or a tailored skin‑care plan to keep them comfortable and glossy right through winter.

23/06/2026

Look at this absolute darling 😍

We love seeing chickens in clinic!

19/06/2026

Mr Pumpernickle’s Weekly Whisker Report

"Winter Warmth, Student Shenanigans & The Great Treat Heist"

This week has been all about staying warm and supervising from a distance. With the cold settling in, I’ve been spending most of my time on the heat mat under a blanket, watching the clinic’s comings and goings like a ginger burrito.

It’s a fine art — staying toasty while maintaining full operational awareness.

We’ve had a flurry of animal attendant students in the clinic over the last few weeks, and I must say, they’re delightful. So curious, so easily distracted by my magnificence. They’ve been practicing grooming, handling, and even putting me in a carrier cage — quite the novelty for someone of my stature — and then into a day‑patient suite.

I tolerated it, of course, for educational purposes.

Mid‑week, I took a sweet ride on the order trolley with one of our customer care ladies. She really knows how to make work fun. I sat regally as we rolled through the shop like royalty on a mini parade.

And finally, my favourite winter indoor activity: Find the Bag of Temptations. One of the nurses hides them from me, but I always accept the challenge. Half the fun is the hunt — the other half is breaking into the bag once I find it.

A true test of skill, persistence, and claw precision.

All in all, a week of warmth, learning, and snack‑based triumphs. I remain your loyal, dramatic, and slightly spoiled clinic cat.

– Mr Pumpernickle

18/06/2026

Winter Parasite Reality Check

Many people assume parasites disappear in winter, but here in New Zealand our mild, damp climate means fleas, worms, and even ticks stay active all year.

Fleas thrive indoors where heat pumps and fireplaces keep temperatures perfect for breeding, and once they’re in your home, their life cycle continues quietly in carpets, bedding, and soft furnishings.

Dogs and cats also continue to pick up intestinal worms from soil, prey, and other pets, even when they’re spending more time inside.

In some regions, ticks remain a risk on lifestyle blocks and bush tracks throughout winter. If your pet is scratching more, leaving black “flea dirt,” or seems a little off‑colour, parasites may still be the culprit.

Keeping up with regular treatments through winter is the best way to protect your pet — and your home — from unwanted hitchhikers. If you want advice pop in and see our Customer Care Team.

16/06/2026

Many Kiwi pets with arthritis start to feel the cold deep in their joints.

You might notice your dog taking a little longer to get up in the morning, hesitating on steps, or tiring more quickly on walks. Cats often show subtler signs — sleeping in one spot all day, avoiding high perches, or grooming less because twisting is uncomfortable.

Cold weather stiffens joints and reduces circulation, making existing arthritis feel worse. Keeping your pet warm, providing soft supportive bedding, using non‑slip mats on hard floors, and maintaining gentle, regular exercise can make a big difference.

If your pet seems sorer than usual, struggles after resting, or has days where they “just aren’t themselves,” a winter arthritis check can help us adjust their pain relief or mobility plan.

We’re here to keep them comfortable, mobile, and enjoying the cosy season with you. If you are worried about your pets comfort level during the cooler months book in an appointment to see one of our Veterinarians

14/06/2026

Cold‑Weather Walk Safety for Pets

When winter settles in, our daily walks can become a bit muddier, darker, and more unpredictable — and that means a few extra safety considerations for our pets.

Cold, wet ground can lead to cracked paw pads, especially in dogs who love charging through puddles or across frosty grass. Shorter daylight hours also mean more time walking in low light, so reflective gear and a well‑fitted collar or harness become even more important.

Muddy tracks can hide hazards like sharp sticks, slippery slopes, or stagnant water that may carry bacteria. After each walk, a quick paw check and towel‑dry helps prevent irritation and keeps your home cleaner too.

If your pet seems stiff after cold outings, hesitates to go outside, or struggles with slippery surfaces, a winter mobility check may help. With a few simple precautions, winter walks can stay safe, fun, and full of fresh‑air adventures.

13/06/2026

Winter Safety for Guinea Pigs & Rabbits in Outdoor Hutches

Guinea pigs and rabbits are especially vulnerable during New Zealand winters, and outdoor hutches can become risky when temperatures drop or heavy rain sets in.

These small pets don’t cope well with cold, damp conditions — even mild chills can lead to respiratory infections, hypothermia, or stress‑related illness. Hutches should be raised well off the ground, fully weather‑proofed, and packed with deep, dry bedding that’s changed frequently to prevent moisture build‑up.

In regions prone to flooding, it’s essential to check drainage around hutches and have a safe indoor backup space ready for periods of heavy rain. Windbreaks, waterproof covers, and ensuring no drafts blow directly through the sleeping area all help keep them warm.

If you notice your rabbit or guinea pig huddling, shivering, staying unusually still, or eating less, they may be struggling with the cold. A quick winter health check can help keep these little ones safe, warm, and thriving through the colder months.

10/06/2026

What To Keep In Your Dog’s First Aid Kit, According To An Emergency Vet!

Accidents happen, and when they do, you want to make sure you’re prepared. So, just as you have assembled a first aid kit for your family filled with bandages, antibacterial ointment and gauze, you should make one for your dog, too!

An emergency vet shared the two essentials for a dog-friendly first aid kit and what you should do after you need to use it.

If you want to read more about what to keep in your dogs fist aid kit check out this article by The Dodo

https://www.thedodo.com/dodowell/dogs/what-to-keep-in-your-dogs-first-aid-kit-according-to-an-emergency-vet

Your pup will thank you.

10/06/2026

Congratulations to our amazing Veterinary Nurse Brooke!