500,000 Australian dogs face health risk as owners make winter assumptions

STORY SNAPSHOT

• Close to 500,000 Australian dog owners say their dog is not currently on parasite medication – and vets say a dangerous misconception may be contributing to this gap.
• As winter reduces outdoor activity, many dog owners assume their dogs face less parasite risk.
• The hidden threat – spending time indoors doesn’t eliminate parasite exposure. Changes to a dog’s winter routine can create a false sense of security making it easier for important health habits to slip, including parasite protection, grooming and weight management.
• In Australia, dogs can be exposed to a variety of external and internal parasites, with many dogs acquiring some type of parasite in their lifetime.^1,2

WHAT THE DATA SAYS

• 8% or close to 500,000 Australian dog owners say their dog is not currently on parasite medication.¹
• 44% of dog owners say winter changes how they exercise or walk their dog.¹
• Younger dog owners are nearly twice as likely to cut back on winter exercise compared to older dog owners who tend to keep exercise routines steady.¹
• Experts say these routine changes can make it easier for broader pet health habits to slip, from regular movement and grooming to weight management and parasite protection.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT

Winter is the ideal time for dog owners to review whether their pet care routine is working for the season ahead. Vets are urging action before complacency sets in. That means ensuring parasite protection is suited to the dog’s age, lifestyle, location and risk.

EXPERT VOICES

Veterinary experts are available to speak to media on:

• The winter pet health checklist every dog owner should know
• How winter changes your dog’s needs, from exercise to grooming and parasite protection
• Shorter walks, same health needs: ways to keep dogs active in colder and wetter months
• Winter hygiene habits for dog owners, including bedding, paw care and grooming
• Is your dog winter-ready? Simple checks owners can make at the start of the season

Media contacts

Anastasiia Nazarenko – 0435 977 559 / [email protected]

References

1. YouGov. (2026). Zoetis Australia consumer research survey, dogs parasite prevention [data on file].
2. Australiawide First Aid. Common Parasites in Dogs and Their Treatments, available via: https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com.au/resources/common-parasites-in-dogs-and-their-treatments