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There are few things more heartwarming than watching your dog romp through a sunny meadow or explore a wooded trail, tail wagging with delight. But lurking in those tall grasses and underbrush are tiny critters that can cause big problems — fleas and ticks.

We know no one wants to talk about fleas and ticks, but the fact is, they’re a part of life in the spring. As a caring pet parent, preventing these pesky parasites is key to keeping your dog healthy, happy, and itch-free.

Why Prevention Matters

Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance; they can carry serious diseases that affect both dogs and humans. Fleas can trigger allergies, cause anemia, and transmit tapeworms. On the other hand, ticks are notorious for spreading Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and other tick-borne illnesses. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding itchy bites — it’s about safeguarding your dog’s health.

Preventive Measures You Can Take

Use Vet-Recommended Preventatives

Your veterinarian can recommend the best flea and tick prevention for your dog, whether it’s a monthly chewable tablet, a topical treatment, or a long-lasting collar. These products are designed to kill or repel parasites before they can cause harm.

Regular Grooming Checks

Make a habit of checking your dog for fleas and ticks after every outdoor adventure. Run your fingers through their fur, paying close attention to the neck, ears, and underbelly. A flea comb can help catch any unwelcome hitchhikers before they settle in. (Don’t forget to check yourself, too! Ticks love humans just as much as they love dogs.)

Keep Your Yard Tidy

Fleas and ticks love shady, overgrown areas. To reduce their hiding spots, mow your lawn regularly, trim bushes, and clear away leaf litter. If you live near wooded areas, consider creating a gravel or wood-chip barrier to help keep ticks from migrating into your yard.

Bathe and Wash

Regular flea and tick shampoo baths can offer an added protection layer. Additionally, wash your dog’s bedding, toys, and any blankets they lounge on to keep the environment flea-free.

Stay Up-to-Date on Vet Visits

Regular vet checkups ensure your dog is protected year-round. Your vet can also check for signs of flea—or tick-borne illnesses and update preventative treatments as needed.

What to Do If You Spot a Flea or Tick

Don’t panic! If you find a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to your dog’s skin as possible and pull it straight out with steady pressure. Clean the area and monitor for any signs of infection. For fleas, a thorough bath with flea shampoo followed by a flea comb session can help remove the critters. Be sure to treat your home environment as well to prevent re-infestation.

A Happy, Healthy Pup

Preventing fleas and ticks is a year-round commitment (though springtime is particularly notorious), but the reward is a happy, itch-free pup and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protecting your best friend. With a little diligence and regular care, you and your dog can continue enjoying the great outdoors without unwelcome guests tagging along.

Unexpected vet bills can be a financial burden, with some procedures costing $10,000+. Without coverage, you’d have to cover these expenses out of pocket.

Pet insurance companies can offer up to 90% reimbursement for covered claims, providing peace of mind and protection against expensive medical bills.

Don’t let unexpected vet bills stress you out. Protect your pet and your finances with top-rated pet insurance.

PROTECT YOUR PET

Family Photo of the Day: Koda!

🐶 Refer 10 people: we will donate a box of treats to an animal rescue 🐶

🐶 Refer 50 people: we will donate a bag of dog food to an animal rescue 🐶

🛏 Refer 100 people: we will donate a dog bed to an animal rescue 🛏

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Sources:

Dog of the day: IG brady.the.staffy

Meme of the day: IG goldenbearollie