What to Do If Your Pet Has Ticks and Fleas During Warm Weather?

When Your Pet Has Ticks and Fleas: Smart Ways Can Fight Back

Warm weather is fun for both people and pets. However, it also brings problems such as ticks and fleas. These tiny bugs hide in grass and on animals. They can bite your pet and cause health issues.  That’s why it’s very important to take care of your pet during this season. This article highlights practical tips to help you prevent and treat ticks and fleas.   

Why Are Ticks and Fleas a Problem? 

• Ticks and fleas are small but dangerous. They live in warm places like grass, bushes, and even your pet’s fur. They suck blood and may spread diseases. Fleas can also cause itching, skin problems, and even make your pet lose hair. 

If your pet keeps scratching, biting, or looks uncomfortable, they might have fleas or ticks. You can learn more about this in ‘Warning Signs Your Pet Has Fleas. ‘ 

Check Your Pet Daily 

• It’s a good idea to check on your pet every day. You can gently run your hands over their body to feel any small bumps. Look behind the ears, under the neck, and between the toes. 

These are favorite hiding places for ticks. Fleas are smaller and move fast. You might see small black dots in your pet’s fur or red spots on their skin. 

Use Safe Flea and Tick Treatment 

• Your vet can recommend the best medicine for your pet. This could be a liquid that you apply to the back of your pet’s neck or a pill they can take orally. Some pets wear special collars that repel fleas and ticks. These treatments are safe and help protect your pet for weeks. 

Keep Your Home Clean 

• Fleas and ticks don’t stay on your pet; they can hide in your home too. Regularly vacuum your house to remove ticks. In addition, wash your pet’s bedding and toys with warm water and soap. This helps kill flea eggs and keeps your home safe from infestations. 

Don’t Forget Your Yard 

• Your yard is also a habitat for ticks and fleas. If your grass is tall or full of leaves, it’s the perfect home for them. Try to cut the grass short and keep the yard clean. This way, pests won’t have places to hide, and your pet will be safer outside.

What to Do If You Find a Tick 

• If you see a tick on your pet, stay calm. You can remove it using clean tweezers. Hold the tick close to the skin and pull it out slowly. Don’t twist it. After removing it, clean the area with water and soap. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your veterinarian for guidance. 

Give Your Pet a Bath 

• You can give your pet a bath with special shampoo made to kill fleas and ticks. It helps remove the bugs on their skin. However, remember that one bath is not enough. You still need to use vet-approved treatments monthly to fully protect your pet. 

Watch for Signs of Sickness

• After a tick or flea bite, your pet might feel sick. If your pet becomes weak, stops eating, or gets a fever, take them to the vet. Sometimes, ticks can cause serious diseases, such as Lyme disease. It’s better to act early than wait. 

Seek Veterinary Help

• Once you spot ticks or fleas on your pet, it’s essential to seek veterinary help as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can provide professional advice on the best medications, considering factors like your pet’s age, health status, and any existing allergies. 

If your pet is infected with ticks and fleas, contact us. At Autumn Trails Veterinary Center, we offer a range of veterinary services. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available; call us at (434) 971-9800.