How to Protect Your Dog From Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are common pests that can make their way onto your dog's fur, causing your dog to itch or even contract diseases that can be harmful or even deadly if not caught in time. Fleas and ticks are both found outside and can be brought inside either on you or on your pet.

Protecting your dog by using preventative measures is important, but if your dog has either fleas or ticks, there are a number of things you can do. See below for some tips to help you protect your pooch from these pests.

There are several different types of preventatives on the market today. They come in chewable versions, liquid medication that needs to be applied on the neck, or even flea collars (which only protect against fleas). All these options are fine, but you should first discuss these options with your veterinarian.

If you live in the city and aren't near any trees, you may be able to get by with just a flea collar. However, if you live near a heavily wooded area, the chewable or liquid medication may be a better solution for your pup.

Don't go without protecting your dog. The medication may be costly, but the cost is better than having to deal with an illness (or worse) later if your dog is bitten by a diseased tick. It can also be a bit of a pain to have to deal with fleas in your home because you didn't protect your dog.

If you can, try to keep your dog out of any heavily wooded areas around your home. Fence in your yard to contain your pooch, or use an invisible fence. Don't allow your dog to roam into areas where fleas, ticks, and other pests may live. If you aren't able to avoid such places, be sure to inspect your dog often for fleas and ticks or other bites.

Give your dog baths and brush your dog often to help get rid of fleas (if your dog has them) and to create an opportunity during which you can inspect your pup for ticks. Feel your dog's skin while giving a bath, feeling for any raised bumps in the skin or tiny black or brown insects.

If you spot fleas, treat your pup immediately with a flea shampoo. Vacuum your home thoroughly and empty the canister outside of your home. Be sure to thoroughly vacuum furniture as well. Bag up clothing, bedding, and stuffed animals to clean them thoroughly and get rid of any fleas that may be on them as well. You can also use a flea bomb in your home if you have an abundance of them.

If you notice a tick on your pup, use tweezers to pull out the pest. Pull it straight out to ensure you pull out the entire tick. If the tick is too far beneath the skin, or if the head is still inside the skin, take your dog to the veterinarian to have the tick and other parts removed professionally and to have your pup tested for Lyme disease and treated as needed.

Your furry buddy means a lot to you, so do your best to protect your pal from pests such as fleas and ticks. Take your pup to the veterinarian often for regular checkups, and if you happen to spot any ticks on your pup, be sure to remove them immediately and have your pup tested and treated. For other questions about flea and tick preventatives and care, talk to your veterinarian at Pet Medical Center of Vero Beach .