When you own a dog, it is wise to be prepared for your pup coming into contact with fleas and ticks. These parasites can strike any puppy, even those that are sent for dog grooming and have regular baths. To help avoid these critters as well as any illnesses, here are some tick and flea treatment options for infestations.

Tick & Flea Prevention in Dogs

Fleas

• Symptoms: When your dog seems uncomfortably itchy, fleas are most likely present. Check their skin for little brown bugs, black specks of feces, or white spots, which are eggs. You may see dermatitis or lesions on dogs with a flea allergy. Some dogs may also experience hair loss and scabbing.
• Flea Comb: Brush your dog’s fur with a fine-toothed comb designed for fleas. Focus on their back, haunches, and groin, which are fleas’ favorite places to infest. In addition to getting rid of adult fleas, you must eliminate the eggs, especially because they will fall from your pup’s skin and infest your home.
• Treatment: The best flea treatments are those that are dabbed between the shoulder blades monthly. These spot-on applications work better than flea collars and are typically waterproof. You can also speak with your vet or dog grooming expert about monthly pills for animals prone to flea infestations.
• Home Care: Spray your yard to stop these bugs before they invade. Invest in non-toxic flea sprays and foggers for your home. Vacuum regularly and clean between and under cushions.
• Other Pets: Even if only one dog has fleas, treat other animals in your home as well. This will curb the infestation and prevent other furry family members from contracting them or re-infesting each other.

Ticks

• Symptoms: If you feel small bumps along your dog’s fur, brush aside the hair and search for the tick. They can be black or brown but will turn grayish white after feeding. Always check after your puppy has been outside, especially at the height of the season. Examine their ears, toes, and underbelly.
• Removal: Carefully remove the embedded tick with tweezers and clean the area well. If you aren’t sure how to do this, speak with your vet or pet grooming expert.
• Treatment: Similar to flea treatment, there are spot-on liquids that work for ticks. Using brands with etofenprox and s-methoprene will kill ticks, fleas, eggs, and will keep mosquitoes away as well. 
• Illness: Ticks can cause tick paralysis in dogs, with signs including vomiting, unsteadiness, and high blood pressure. Call your pet’s healthcare professional if you see any of these symptoms.

Elizabethtown, KY, relies on Clippet Pet Salon for their pet grooming needs. With more than 30 years in the industry, their caring staff is well-versed in dog bathing and pet care to keep your pup clean and healthy. They also offer tick and flea treatments to help prevent uncomfortable and potentially dangerous infestations. Call (270) 765-6894 or visit their website to learn more.