Flea and Tick Prevention: Mid-Summer Musts for Pet Owners
Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance—they’re dangerous. These parasites peak in summer and can cause everything from itchy skin to serious diseases like Lyme disease and Bartonella. As temperatures rise in July, now’s the time to double down on prevention and monitoring for your pet’s health.
Fleas reproduce rapidly in warm, humid weather. One flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, and a full-blown infestation can happen within days if left unchecked. Ticks are equally active, often hiding in tall grasses, wooded areas, and even backyards. They latch onto pets undetected and feed on their blood, sometimes transmitting harmful pathogens in the process.
The first step in prevention is year-round flea and tick control. Whether you use topical treatments, oral medications, collars, or natural alternatives, it’s essential to stay consistent. Skipping doses, even in the winter, can leave your pet vulnerable. Consult your veterinarian to choose the best product for your pet’s age, size, and lifestyle.
Regular grooming also plays a critical role in parasite prevention. Brushing your pet helps you spot fleas, flea dirt (black specks that resemble pepper), or ticks before they become a larger issue. Pay special attention to the base of the tail, around the neck, ears, and between the toes—these are prime hiding spots for pests.
Bathing your pet with a gentle flea shampoo can help if you suspect an issue, but it's not a substitute for veterinary-prescribed prevention. For ticks, check your pet after every outdoor adventure. If you find a tick, remove it promptly using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out. Avoid crushing the tick’s body during removal.
Pets aren't the only ones at risk. Fleas and ticks can infest your home, especially if brought inside on your pet's coat. Vacuuming carpets, washing bedding regularly, and using vet-approved home sprays can help break the life cycle. If infestation occurs, a professional exterminator may be needed.
Watch for warning signs that your pet may be dealing with parasites. Symptoms include excessive scratching, hair loss, red or irritated skin, lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite. In some cases, tick-borne illnesses can take weeks to show signs, so if your pet has had exposure, mention it to your vet during their next visit.
Certain pets are more at risk, including dogs who hike or camp, outdoor cats, senior pets with weakened immune systems, and those living in rural or wooded areas. That said, even indoor pets can be exposed through doors, windows, or on clothing, so protection is important for all.
If you live in a high-risk region for Lyme disease, your veterinarian may also recommend a Lyme vaccine for dogs. This extra layer of defense helps reduce the risk of infection, especially during the high-tick season.
Finally, remember that prevention is always less expensive—and less stressful—than treating an infestation or illness. A single vet visit for tick-borne disease or flea allergy dermatitis can cost far more than a season of prevention.
By staying vigilant during the summer months, using veterinarian-recommended preventives, and inspecting your pet regularly, you can enjoy the outdoors without worry. Contact Grace Animal Hospital at 116 Collins Crossing Road,Holly Springs, NC 27540 or call us today at 919-346-0285. Your pet’s comfort, health, and safety are worth every precaution.
