As flea and tick season begins to make its way into full swing, you need to be prepared to defend your furry friend from these parasitic enemies! Fleas and ticks can cause a wide range of health problems for your dog and should be avoided at all costs.
Here are four tips to help keep your dog safe from fleas and ticks during the warmer months ahead!
1) Actively Check Your Dog
You shouldn’t wait until you see your dog scratching to check for fleas or ticks. Regularly run a flea comb through their coat, and if you find your dog has a flea and tick infestation, your first step is to eliminate the parasites from your pet. Choose a flea and tick spray to keep adult fleas and ticks off your pup, or bathe your dog with a flea and tick shampoo to kill the parasites. Certain essential oil sprays can minimize fleas and ticks jumping on your dog if you mist them before heading out. If your pup is outside in wooded areas, check them regularly for ticks and remove any you find right away. Carrying a tick key with you while walking your dog outdoors is recommended. Remember to use these extra preventative products in addition to your vet-recommended products.
2) Practice Prevention Methods
It is always important to talk to your trusted veterinarian about planning out your pup’s flea and tick prevention methods. Prescription medications can offer more peace of mind than over-the-counter products, but many topical flea and tick treatments are available that might be more convenient in a pinch. Flea collars are a great option and last longer than topical treatments but check with your vet if you are unsure what is safe for your dog. Keep in mind that some dogs can be allergic to oral flea and tick medications, so watch for signs of lethargy and uncoordinated gait.
3) Protect Your Environment
Your home is a desirable flea habitat because the fleas are shielded from the outside elements. Be sure to wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum regularly to reduce the number of fleas that may enter your home. Ticks can lurk in grass or low-hanging bushes, so keep your yard mowed and trimmed to keep these pesky parasites at bay.
4) Yearlong Protection
Flea season can run into November or even December, and ticks can become active again as early as February. There is no clear time to start treating your dog. It would be best to consider prevention methods year-round to keep your pup safe.
Here at Copper Canyon Australian Labradoodles, we recognize the importance of flea and tick prevention for your dog and recommend you heed the advice of your trusted veterinarian when it comes to prevention methods. Be sure to visit your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog may have a tick-borne illness.
If you’re looking for a new furry friend to join you on some outdoor activities this summer, please fill out our online adoption application and browse our expected litter’s page for updates!