Tick Prevention 101: Tips & Tricks

What’s the deal with fleas and ticks? Why is it such a big deal that we monitor our dogs to make sure that they aren’t carrying fleas and ticks? On top of being uncomfortable for your dog, fleas feast on your dog’s blood and it can lead to anemia which can eventually lead to fatal conditions. On the other hand, ticks can harm your pet by transmitting infections like lyme disease for example. 

So what can you do to make sure that your dog doesn’t suffer at the bites of these pesky critters? Here are some prevention tips and tricks you can use. 

Stay Diligent After Walks

Before you go back in your house after a walk - especially if the walk occurred in the woods - inspect yourself and your dog for ticks. Ticks tend to go for crevices and areas that have a spot to hide like in between toes, behind the ears, inside the ears, under the tail, on the lips and around the eyes. Properly pluck those buggers off as soon as you can to reduce the risk of contracting illnesses from ticks. 

Things to remember about tick removal:

• Use pointed tweezers
• Part the fur and grab hold of the tick as closely to the skin as you can
• Do not tear the tick
• If not well-versed in tick removal, seek assistance from your local vet

Vacuum Your Home Regularly

Flea eggs in particular can stay dormant and hatch at the moment that’s right for their survival. According to veterinarians, fleas also like to hang out near corners and objects so while you may think vacuuming the open areas will help, make sure you get the hard to reach areas for better coverage.

Don’t forget to vacuum the furniture that cannot be washed and immediately dispose of the vacuum bag contents so fleas and ticks don’t find their way back and put you back at Point A.

Wash All Bedding - Dog & Human Bedding

Pick up anything that can fit and is safe in the washer and dryer and have them run on the highest setting. Heat will kill fleas that are trying to be incognito in your household items.

Flea & Tick Medication

This one is the obvious and first thought that comes to mind when fur baby parents are faced with fleas and ticks. If you just brought a new puppy into the family, American Kennel Club has a fantastic chart that details different medications, the method of dosing, and the frequency of dosing for puppies on this page. 

For adult dogs, we recommend connecting with a veterinarian for assistance as you want the best option for your dog’s needs and the circumstances of fleas and ticks at your home.

When All Else Fails…

Seek professional help, whether it’s going to a veterinarian’s office and/or hiring pest control to come into your home to make sure you’re closer to a comfortable home.