How to Protect Dogs from Ticks and Fleas: A Complete Guide
Ticks and fleas are more than just a nuisance—they can cause serious health issues for your dog, including skin infections, allergies, and even diseases like Lyme disease. Protecting your furry friend requires a proactive approach. Here’s how to protect dogs from ticks and fleas.
1. Use Preventive Medications
Veterinary-recommended flea and tick preventatives are the most effective way to protect your dog. Options include:
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Topical treatments (applied monthly to the skin)
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Oral medications (chewable tablets that kill parasites)
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Flea and tick collars (long-lasting protection)
Consult your vet to choose the best option for your dog’s breed, age, and health.
2. Regular Grooming & Inspection
Frequent brushing helps detect ticks and fleas early. After walks, check your dog’s:
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Ears
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Paws & between toes
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Neck & underbelly
Use a fine-toothed flea comb to remove any pests before they settle in.
3. Keep Your Yard Clean
Ticks and fleas thrive in tall grass and wooded areas. Reduce risk by:
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Mowing the lawn regularly
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Removing leaf piles and debris
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Using pet-safe yard sprays or nematodes (natural flea predators)
4. Wash Bedding & Vacuum Often
Fleas lay eggs in carpets, furniture, and your dog’s bedding. Wash their blankets weekly in hot water and vacuum floors frequently to eliminate eggs and larvae.
5. Natural Remedies (For Mild Cases)
If you prefer natural solutions, try:
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Apple cider vinegar (diluted in water as a spray)
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Diatomaceous earth (food-grade, sprinkled on fur and bedding)
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Essential oils (lavender or cedar oil, but only in safe, diluted amounts)
6. Avoid High-Risk Areas
During peak flea and tick season (spring & summer), avoid tall grass, dense woods, and areas with stray animals. Stick to well-maintained trails.
7. Regular Vet Checkups
Annual vet visits help catch flea or tick-related issues early. Your vet can recommend the best prevention plan based on your location and your dog’s lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Preventing ticks and fleas requires consistency. By combining preventative medications, grooming, and a clean environment, you can keep your dog happy and parasite-free.
Protect your dog from ticks & fleas with vet-approved treatments! For expert parasite prevention, contact Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital at 08 9524 6644 or visit our contact page to book your dog’s next vaccination appointment.
Similar post: How to Keep Your Pet Healthy
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