Fleas and ticks impact even the cleanest pets. Fleas and ticks exist year round but are more commonly found in the spring and summer months. There are about 2000 species of fleas and ticks that we know of. A female flea can consume 15 times its body weight (in the blood) on a daily basis and will lay eggs within 35 to 48 hours of its first blood meal.
If you and your pet spend a lot of time outdoors or near water, you’ll want to learn about these 4 tips to keeping your dog safe from fleas and ticks!
Treat for Fleas and Ticks Year Round
While ticks and fleas are more commonly found during the warmer months as they thrive in weather around 65 degrees to 85 degrees, they can still be found in colder climates. It’s important to talk to your vet about flea and tick treatment for both spring/summer and fall/winter. There are many protection choices to choose from so talk to your vet about which option is right for you and your pet.
Groom Your Pet Regularly
Ticks and fleas are small and sometimes impossible to find unless your pet is noticeably itchy. Grooming your pet on a regular basis can help you do regular tick and flea checks. Grooming your pet can be as simple as brushing them daily and go as far as bathing them 1x a week at home. If you take your pet to a professional groomer you can talk to them about any flea and tick special shampoo they may be able to offer.
Wash Your Linens Regularly
Fleas and ticks love to burrow and hangout in linens just as much as they love to burrow and hang out on your pet. Washing any linens and bedding that your dog regularly touches or sleeps on can help eliminate any high-risk opportunities for contracting fleas and ticks. Remember, fleas and ticks love people, too.
Keep Your Lawn Trim
Fleas and ticks love hanging out in overgrowth. Keeping your lawn and and surrounding hedges and growth can reduce housing opportunities for fleas and ticks. Keep this information in mind when you take your pet hiking or in open fields with high growth. Brush and wash your pet as soon as you are finished to avoid bringing ticks and fleas into your home.
