Good questions, honest answers
Frequently asked questions
The things pet owners ask me most, about the oils, hair testing, and ordering. If your question isn’t here, just ask.
The oils
About the blends
Are essential oils safe for pets?
Used correctly, yes. Animals are not small humans, so every Nurture Pets blend is formulated specifically for animal bodies by a qualified animal aromatherapist, properly diluted, with plain-spoken safety directions on every bottle. Take care around the eyes and other sensitive areas, and if your pet shows any sign of discomfort, stop use and seek veterinary care.
Can I use the blends on my cat?
Cats process essential oils differently from dogs, so always check the label first. Some blends, like Pest Protect, are made for dogs only. If you’re unsure whether a blend suits your cat, get in touch and I’ll help you choose.
How do I apply a roller blend?
Each blend comes in a 10ml roller with directions on the bottle. Most are rolled onto the paws, chest or ears, or applied directly to the area that needs support. For calming blends, apply before the stressful moment when you know one is coming.
How long until I notice a difference?
It depends on the blend and your pet. Calming support is often noticeable in the moment, while something like Growth Guard may take up to 6 weeks of regular use. These blends support your pet’s wellbeing; they’re not overnight fixes, and they don’t replace veterinary care.
Do the oils replace my vet?
Never. I’m a vet nurse, so this one matters to me: the blends work alongside your vet, not instead of them. A decade of clinical experience means I know when something needs your vet, and I’ll always say so.
Hair testing
About the hair test
What is epigenetic hair testing?
A small sample of your pet’s hair is analysed to build a picture of what their body is working with: foods and environmental factors that may not be serving them, and nutrients that could use more support. You receive a personalised report, so we’re working from information rather than guesswork.
What do I get with a hair test?
A personalised nutrition report for your dog or cat, and a plain-English talk-through of what it means and what to do next, from someone with a decade of vet nursing behind her.
How do I book, and where are you?
The clinic runs by appointment in the Bay of Plenty. Book through the contact page or ring 027 222 0229. Ask about current pricing when you book.
Ordering and shipping
Getting the oils to you
How do I order and pay?
Order straight from the online shop. Checkout is a secure card payment powered by Stripe, and you’ll get an email confirmation as soon as your order is in.
Do you ship across New Zealand?
Yes, orders ship NZ-wide with flat-rate shipping added at checkout. You’ll receive an email update when your order is on its way.
I'm not sure which blend my pet needs. Can you help?
That’s exactly what I’m here for. Send me a note about what’s been going on, or better still, book a hair test so we can see what your pet’s body actually needs before choosing.
Still wondering?
Ask the person who blends them
No question is too small. Tell me what’s going on with your pet and I’ll point you in the right direction, even if that’s your vet.