As dog parents, fleas and ticks are an ever-present concern. These pesky pests can cause major health problems if they’re not dealt with quickly and effectively—but don’t worry. Our canine experts at Berkshire Dogs Unleashed share everything you need to know about prevention as well as how to protect your dog from fleas and ticks.
Types Of Flea And Tick Prevention For Dogs
There are a few different ways you can protect your dog from fleas and ticks, including:
- Flea collars
- Shampoos
- Flea and Tick Pills or Sprays
- Natural Treatments
Let’s talk about each option in more detail…
Flea Collars
One of the most common types of flea and tick prevention for dogs is flea collars. Flea collars are easy to use and come in a variety of different formulations. From the outside, they look like traditional dog collars with a strap and buckle closure. However, fleas don’t stand a chance against this collar because it will release chemicals into your pup’s skin and coat that kill fleas. Some collars can even help fight against ticks.
Shampoos
For dog parents who prefer a more natural approach, shampoo is another option. There are many different dog shampoos that will help while also keeping your pup’s coat healthy and clean. These dog-safe shampoos usually come in liquid form with dog-safe ingredients.
Shampoos are an effective way to protect your dog from fleas because they kill the bugs on contact while also moisturizing and nourishing their skin.
Pills or Sprays
If you want a more permanent solution, flea and tick medications are the way to go. Monthly flea and tick medication for dogs is a prevention option that lasts all month long. Some pills can even last 8 months or longer so make sure to check your options before making a decision.
If your dog goes outside, this type of treatment is a great way to prevent ticks from clinging onto your pup’s fur or skin where they can feed on blood undetected. These medications are also great options if you travel often or your dog spends time at doggie daycare.
Natural Treatments
If you’re looking for flea prevention that doesn’t include chemicals, consider making a natural flea and tick dog treatment at home. You could make a lemon juice combination by boiling six cups of water, then adding one teaspoon salt and four pieces of fresh lemons. Let this mixture cool, then put it in a spray bottle. Spray your dog with the flea treatment solution and let them dry naturally—or pat their coat down gently with a towel. Lemon acts as a natural repellent to fleas and will reduce the chances of your pup experiencing an infestation.
Natural flea treatments for dogs are also available at most pet stores or online retailers. Just be sure you don’t get any flea prevention products in your dog’s eyes or ears!
How To Treat Dogs With Fleas or Ticks
Now that you know what flea and tick prevention options are available, it’s time to learn about treatment options for your dog. There are a few different ways you can protect your pup from fleas and ticks.
Fleas are most active between the months of May to September in the Northern Hemisphere, so you’ll want to take extra special care during these times.
Treating Fleas On Dogs
When fleas begin to infest your dog’s fur, you may be able to see them. If not, you can check for flea dirt (feces) on your pup’s skin and coat which looks like pepper specks around the base of the hairs. You might also notice scratching and flea bites on your dog’s skin, which can lead to redness and hair loss. If you find fleas or flea dirt anywhere along your pup’s body, we recommend talking with a veterinarian about which treatment option is best for your dog.
If left untreated for too long, fleas will spread throughout your dog’s body and can cause serious health problems—which is why flea infestations in dogs must be treated immediately.
Treating Ticks On Dogs
Ticks can be much more dangerous than a mere flea problem. They can carry diseases like Lyme disease and other serious illnesses that affect both pets and people.
If you spot a tick on your dog’s skin or in their fur, remove it by following these steps:
– Use a flea comb to gently remove the tick.
– If you can’t get it off with a flea comb, use tweezers and grab as close to your dog’s skin as possible.
– Once removed, put flea treatment or rubbing alcohol on the area where the ticks were to disinfect the skin and kill flea eggs.
Then, take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment. Your vet may recommend medication or antibiotics to help prevent illness in both you and your pet.
Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy
At Berkshire Dogs Unleashed we offer tick removal services as well as flea and tick shampoo treatments that smell great, are gentle on your pup’s coat, and help keep fleas and ticks away. Keeping your dog flea-free will help your dog avoid any skin irritation or health problems.
Dog fleas and ticks are an issue that every pet parent may deal with at some point, but they don’t need to be tough. With the right treatment option, fleas on dogs can be gone in no time. Contact us today at (413) 464-6384 to learn more about keeping your pup happy and healthy!