Warm weather means more time outdoors for your dog—but it also means an uptick in pests like ticks and fleas. These parasites can cause serious health issues for your pet, from skin irritation to diseases like Lyme and tapeworm. Prevention is the best defense. Here’s how to protect your dog from ticks and fleas this summer.
1. Stay Consistent with Preventative Medication
One of the most effective ways to prevent tick and flea infestations is to use veterinarian-recommended preventative treatments. These can come in the form of topical treatments, oral medications, or flea collars. Many pet owners opt for monthly oral tablets because they’re easy to administer and provide full-body protection.
If you’re looking for reliable options, you can find affordable flea medicine online that’s both vet-approved and convenient to have delivered right to your home.
2. Maintain Your Yard
Ticks thrive in tall grass and shady, wooded areas. Keep your yard well-trimmed, and remove piles of leaves or brush where ticks may hide. Consider using pet-safe pest control treatments on your lawn during peak summer months. Creating a gravel or wood-chip barrier between your lawn and any surrounding wooded areas can also help keep ticks from migrating toward your home.
3. Groom and Check Your Dog Regularly
During summer walks or hikes, your dog may pick up ticks without you noticing. Make it a habit to check your pet thoroughly after spending time outdoors—especially around the ears, neck, under the collar, between the toes, and in the armpits. Brushing your dog regularly can also help remove fleas before they settle in.
Use a fine-toothed flea comb to inspect for flea dirt (tiny black specks that look like pepper) and actual fleas. If you find a tick, use tweezers or a tick-removal tool to remove it carefully and completely.
4. Keep Indoor Spaces Clean
Even if your dog spends most of their time outside, ticks and fleas can still make their way indoors. Vacuum carpets, wash pet bedding regularly, and consider using indoor-safe flea sprays if you live in an area with a high infestation risk. Keeping your home clean minimizes the chance of a full-blown infestation.
5. Consult with Your Veterinarian
Every dog is different. Factors like age, breed, weight, and health status can affect which flea and tick prevention method is best. Your vet can recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs, especially if your pet has sensitivities or underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
Summer adventures with your dog shouldn’t come with the risk of parasites. By staying consistent with prevention, grooming regularly, and maintaining both your home and yard, you can keep ticks and fleas away all season long. Start early, stay prepared, and give your dog the safe, happy summer they deserve.