Flea & Tick Season: How to Keep Your Dog Safe

As the weather warms up, flea and tick season kicks into high gear, putting your dog at risk for bites, irritation, and even serious illnesses. These tiny pests thrive in warm, humid environments and can quickly become a nuisance for both pets and their owners. Fortunately, with the right precautions, you can keep your dog protected all season long.

When Is Flea & Tick Season?

While fleas and ticks can be a year-round concern in some regions, they are most active from spring through fall, peaking in the warmest months. If you enjoy hiking, exploring the outdoors, or even just taking neighborhood walks with your dog, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take preventative steps.

Why Fleas & Ticks Are a Problem

Fleas and ticks are more than just annoying – they can cause serious health issues:

• Fleas: These tiny insects feed on blood, causing itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. Severe infestations can lead to anemia, especially in puppies. Fleas also carry tapeworms, which your dog can ingest by biting or grooming themselves.

• Ticks: Ticks latch onto your dog and feed on their blood, potentially transmitting diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and anaplasmosis. Some tick-borne illnesses can have long-term effects on your dog’s health if left untreated.

How to Protect Your Dog

The good news is that there are many ways to prevent flea and tick infestations. Here’s what you can do:

1. Use Preventative Treatments

There are several effective flea and tick preventatives available, including:✅ Oral medications (monthly chewable tablets)✅ Topical treatments (liquid applied to the skin)✅ Collars (long-lasting protection)✅ Shampoos & sprays (for extra protection)

Talk to your vet about the best option for your dog based on their size, breed, and lifestyle.

2. Check Your Dog Regularly

After outdoor adventures, run your hands through your dog’s fur, checking for small bumps or embedded ticks, especially around the ears, neck, underarms, and between toes. A flea comb can help detect fleas and flea dirt.

3. Keep Your Yard Flea & Tick-Free

Ticks and fleas love tall grass, leaf piles, and shaded areas. Keep your yard maintained by:🌿 Mowing the lawn regularly🧹 Removing debris and fallen leaves🚫 Avoiding overgrown areas where ticks hide

4. Wash Bedding & Vacuum Often

Fleas can lay eggs in carpets, furniture, and bedding. Regular cleaning helps break the flea life cycle and keeps infestations at bay.

5. Stay Up to Date on Vet Visits

Regular vet checkups can help detect flea and tick issues early. Your vet may also recommend annual Lyme disease vaccinations if ticks are common in your area.

What to Do If Your Dog Has Fleas or a Tick

🐜 For Fleas:

• Bathe your dog with flea shampoo.

• Use a flea comb to remove fleas and eggs.

• Wash bedding and vacuum your home thoroughly.

• Treat all pets in the household.

🕷 For Ticks:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers to grab the tick as close to the skin as possible.

• Pull straight out with steady pressure—don’t twist or crush the tick.

• Clean the bite area and monitor your dog for any signs of illness.

If you're unsure or if the tick is embedded deep, visit your vet for removal.

Final Thoughts

Flea and tick season doesn’t have to put a damper on your outdoor adventures! With the right preventative measures, you and your dog can enjoy the warm months worry-free. Stay vigilant, check your dog regularly, and keep up with their flea and tick prevention to ensure a happy, healthy season ahead.

Need Help Getting Your Dog Outside?

At Northern Dog, we offer adventure hikes and trail walks to keep your pup active while staying safe from fleas and ticks. Want to learn more? Reach out today to schedule a free meet & greet!