Now that summer is finally here, your pet will be spending a significant amount of time outdoors. To keep them happy and healthy all season long, the veterinarians at Wahiawa Pet Hospital in Hawaii say it’s important to take extra care to protect your pet from ticks and fleas. Serving residents on Oahu, the premier animal hospital provides a broad range of top-quality pet care services including boarding, dentistry, surgery, and vaccinations.

Below, the caring veterinarians explain how to protect your pet from ticks and fleas:

• Conduct Routine Checks: One of the most important ways to prevent fleas and ticks is by conducting routine checks of your pet’s fur. To check for fleas, you can use a flea comb to spot any black specks that may be fecal matter. Brush your fingers through the fur to feel for any bumps that could be ticks. 
• Administer a Flea Prevention Product: Ask your veterinarian to recommend a flea and tick prevention product, such as a pill or topical medication.  Oral flea and tick preventatives are excellent at killing fleas and providing long lasting prevention. 
• Regularly Wash Your Pet’s Bedding: Washing your pet’s bedding and blankets is another helpful way to prevent flea infestations. Be sure to throw them in the washing machine at the hottest water setting to kill any existing fleas and eggs. Vacuuming the carpeted areas of your home will also help remove immature fleas.

If your pet already has already been exposed to fleas and ticks, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about the best treatment options. To make an appointment at Wahiawa Pet Hospital on the island of Oahu, call (808) 621-7000 today. You can also visit their website for more information about their comprehensive list of treatments and services.