How to Protect Your Pet from Fleas and Ticks as the Weather Warms Up

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How to Protect Your Pet from Fleas and Ticks as the Weather Warms Up

As the temperatures rise, so does the activity of fleas and ticks. These pesky parasites thrive in warm, humid environments and can quickly become a problem if preventive measures aren’t taken early. At Highland Veterinary Clinic, we want to help you keep your furry companions safe and itch-free all season long.
 

Why Fleas and Ticks Are More Active in Warmer Months

Spring and summer create ideal conditions for fleas and ticks to reproduce and spread. Fleas can lay hundreds of eggs in your pet’s fur and your home, while ticks latch onto pets during walks, hikes, or even time spent in the backyard. Both pests can cause serious health issues, including skin infections, allergic reactions, and the transmission of diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and tapeworms.
 

Signs Your Pet May Have Fleas or Ticks

Watch for these common symptoms:

  • Excessive scratching or licking

  • Red, inflamed skin

  • Hair loss or scabs

  • Visible fleas, flea dirt (tiny black specks), or ticks on the skin
     

Regular grooming and checking your pet’s coat can help you catch an infestation early.
 

Tips to Prevent Fleas and Ticks

  • Use Veterinary-Approved Preventives: Topical treatments, oral medications, and flea/tick collars can offer strong protection. Always consult your veterinarian to find the right product based on your pet’s species, age, and health status.

  • Keep Your Yard Maintained: Trim grass, shrubs, and trees to limit tick-friendly areas. Fleas and ticks thrive in shaded, overgrown spaces. Consider using pet-safe pest control solutions outdoors.

  • Check Your Pet After Outdoor Activities: After walks or playtime outside, inspect your pet’s coat - especially around the ears, neck, tail, and between the toes. Prompt removal of ticks can prevent disease transmission.

  • Wash Bedding and Clean Your Home: Vacuum carpets, clean pet bedding regularly, and wash toys to eliminate flea eggs and larvae before they can develop into adults.

  • Schedule Regular Veterinary Visits: Routine checkups allow your vet to examine your pet for signs of parasites and adjust their prevention plan as needed.
     

Protect Your Pet All Season Long

Don’t wait until your pet is scratching to take action. Fleas and ticks can cause lasting health problems. By staying proactive and working closely with your veterinary team, you can ensure a safe, comfortable summer for your four-legged friend.
 

If you need help selecting the best flea and tick prevention for your pet, contact Highland Veterinary Clinic to learn more about how to keep your pet protected all season long. Visit our office in Evansville, Indiana, or call (812) 710-4300 today.