Protect Your Pet From Ticks and Fleas This Fall
Austin, Ray, and Piper are tick and flea free! Here’s how you can keep your pup just as healthy!
At Boston Fetch we like to take our dog walks off-road every once in a while. Our dogs love stepping off the sidewalk and taking a relaxing hike through nature.
As the crisp autumn air rolls in, it’s important to remember that flea and tick season isn’t over yet. Though the colors of those crunchy, fallen leaves are full of New England charm, they can obscure the last of the season's tick hatchlings and lend us a false sense of security. These pesky parasites can still pose a threat to your furry friend - even after the ground frosts over a few times. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your dog for flea and tick season this fall.
1. Prevention is Key
Regular Treatments: Ensure your dog is on a consistent flea and tick prevention regimen. There are various options available, including topical treatments, oral medications, and flea collars. Consult your veterinarian to choose the best option for your dog.
Yard Maintenance: Keep your yard clean and free of debris where fleas and ticks can hide. Regularly mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove leaf litter.
Regular Grooming: Brush your dog’s coat frequently to check for any signs of fleas or ticks. This also helps in removing any loose fur and dirt where these parasites might hide.
Frankie and Coco can safely enjoy a walk through the Lost Pond Sanctuary because they are on monthly flea and tick preventatives.
2. Spotting Fleas and Ticks
Fleas: Look for small, dark brown insects moving quickly through your dog’s fur. Flea dirt, which looks like tiny black pepper flakes, is another sign. You can confirm it’s flea dirt by placing it on a wet paper towel; if it turns reddish-brown, it’s flea dirt.
Ticks: Ticks are easier to spot when they are engorged. They can be as small as a pinhead or as large as a grape. Pay close attention to areas like the ears, neck, and between the toes.
3. Extracting Fleas and Ticks
Removing Fleas:
Bathing: Give your dog a bath with a flea shampoo. This will kill the fleas on contact. Follow up with a flea comb to remove any remaining fleas and flea dirt.
Flea Comb: Use a fine-toothed flea comb to comb through your dog’s fur. Dip the comb in soapy water after each pass to kill the fleas.
Removing Ticks:
Duke, Ray, and Henry love resting on those crunchy leaves after a fun walk!
Tools: Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool.
Technique: Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
Aftercare: Clean the bite area with antiseptic and wash your hands thoroughly. Dispose of the tick by placing it in alcohol, sealing it in a bag, or flushing it down the toilet.
Pro-Tip: If you place the tick (dead or alive) in a sealed bag and take it to your local vet or doctor they can test it for lyme disease or other tick born illnesses.
4. What to Do Once You Catch a Flea or Tick
Fleas:
Immediate Action: If you find fleas, treat your dog with a fast-acting flea treatment. Wash your dog’s bedding and vacuum your home thoroughly to remove any flea eggs and larvae.
Ticks:
Monitor: Keep an eye on the bite area for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Idgy, Ray, and Coco beautiful coats really POP against those yellow, orange, and red leaves!
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help ensure your dog stays happy and healthy throughout the fall season. Remember, prevention and early detection are your best defenses against these pesky parasites.