Fleas and ticks are the annoying and dangerous monsters that feed on your dog’s blood. They are the biggest nightmare for every pet parent and can even infect humans. This blog covers what fleas and ticks are and how you can tackle them to keep our furry friends protected and healthy.

What are Fleas & Ticks?

Fleas are wingless parasites that feed on the blood of humans and dogs. Around 1/8 inches long in size, these tiny pests remain attached to your dog’s skin, and further reproduce to cause an infestation. It causes itching, allergies, and life-threatening illnesses as well. Fleas multiply quickly and can lay multiple eggs at a time, which makes it difficult to get rid of them. 

Ticks are eight-legged, teardrop-shaped insects with a spider-like appearance. They feed off your dog’s blood, and after sucking blood off of the host’s body, their size increases and they swell like a grape. Ticks are larger compared to fleas and can be found in different colours.

Both fleas and ticks are dangerous for your dog and can even prove fatal to humans. The only difference they have is in their shape and size.

Symptoms Your Dog Has Fleas and Ticks

• Itching and scratching
• Allergies like bumps or rashes
• Hair loss
• Changes in behaviour
• Weakness in smaller puppies
• Feeling tired
• Decrease in appetite

How to Spot Fleas and Ticks on Your Dog?

It is essential to spot fleas and ticks, so they can be eliminated before they develop an infestation. By frequently examining your dog’s coat, you can easily find any fleas and ticks attached. Fleas and ticks are usually spotted in the following areas:

• Under the collar
• Behind the ears
• The base of the tail
• Elbows
• Between paw pads
• Between toes
• Under front legs

If you spot any fleas and ticks on your dog, it is very important to begin with immediate treatment. Let us now have a look at the ways to get rid of fleas and ticks.

Flea and tick comb

You can use a toothcomb to gently brush off fleas and ticks from your dog’s fur. This will help in locating fleas and ticks, along with giving you an idea of the severity of the infestation. Once you pick up any flea or tick from your dog’s body, make sure to kill them by dipping them in a soap solution.

Anti-flea and tick shampoo

Bathing your dog with an anti-flea and tick shampoo will help eliminate these harmful parasites. There is a range of flea and tick shampoos available in the market that can help you get rid of fleas and ticks. Most of them also provide relief from itching and tick bites.

Flea and tick spray

Flea and tick sprays are specially formulated to prevent fleas and ticks and provide relief from the already existing ones on their body. The effects of these sprays do not last long, so they might not work for heavy infestations but are perfect for using in conjunction with other flea and tick treatments.   

Flea & tick prevention chews

Flea and tick preventative chews or pills can be fed to your dog either directly or with food. They contain active ingredients that kill fleas and ticks as soon as they bite your dog. Some of the most popular flea and tick chews available in the market today include Bravecto, Simparica trio, NexGard, etc., which attack the nervous system of these parasites and prevent your dog from getting affected.

Flea and tick topicals

Flea and tick topicals are a type of liquid solution that is applied externally to the neck of your dog. It is applied directly to the skin so that it can spread all over the body via the skin’s natural oils. Topical applicators are only applied to the collar area and not to areas where your dog can lick or rub the product off. If you are looking for the best flea and tick topicals for your dog, check out Savavet Fiprofort, Hester Safeline, etc.

How to Control Fleas & Ticks around Your Home?

Fleas and ticks not only dwell on your dog’s coat, but on your furniture, carpets, lawns, and other areas of the house too. They lay eggs there and proliferate, further infecting your dog. Here’s what you can do to prevent these invaders from entering your home:

• Wash your pet’s clothing and linens regularly.
• Vacuum your carpets, cushions, and floors every day.
• Wash all pet bedding and toys weekly with hot, soapy water.
• Mow your lawn short and trim your shrubs.
• Keep your home tidy and clean.

Bottom line

Although fleas and ticks are common they can be prevented with proper care. Follow the tips we discussed in this blog and protect your furball from these pests. That being said, always consult your veterinarian to choose the right flea and tick treatment for your dog.