Tips And Tricks To Get Rid Of Fleas And Ticks

Summer is right around the corner, which unfortunately means it’s officially flea and tick season. Any pup parent can attest that enjoying the warm weather is impossible if your dog is miserable from constantly itching and scratching. Not only do these unwanted pests make your pooch uncomfortable, but they also cause adverse health risks. Specifically, ticks may bring about conditions, like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Thankfully, there a simple way was to both prevent and treat an infestation of ticks and fleas. (Just a quick disclaimer -- please talk to your vet before trying out any of our tips.)

Be Vigilant 

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While this can be quite a tedious task, it is in your best interest to examine Fido’s body each time he goes outside. You’ll want to pay extra attention to his paws. If your pooch has long or dense fur, you may also want to consider going to the groomers and asking for a close shave, so that parasites won’t have a place to hide. 

Vacuum Your Carpets Regularly

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While my dog, who is terrified of vacuums, will tell you that this is horrible advice, you should vacuum your carpets every few days to stop pests from taking over your house. You should specifically focus your attention on spots where Spot likes to spend his time. 

Trim Your Lawn

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During the summer season, there’s a good chance fleas and ticks are hiding in your yard just waiting for a chance to hop on your dog. To prevent this from happening, you should regularly mow your grass and trim any shrubbery. 

Try Topical Treatments 

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If your pooch does have fleas or ticks, there’s a good chance that your vet will recommend topical treatments, which may include shampoos, powders, or sprays. Before applying the medication, be sure to thoroughly read the instructions and put on a pair of disposable gloves for your own safety. 

Use Natural Remedies 

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There are plenty of natural remedies that can prevent fleas. For instance, rubbing coconut oil on your pup’s fur should do the trick. Another option is to fill a spray bottle with water and a few drops of cedar or lemongrass oil. You’ll want to lightly spritz a mixture to your pup’s body. Also, it’s important to note that you should refrain from using essential oils if you have a cat in your household, as some are toxic to our feline friends. 

Remove Ticks With Tweezers

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Removing ticks is not the most enjoyable activity. However, it does lessen the chance of your pup getting sick from a tick bite, so it’s totally worth it. Grab a pair of tweezers and closely inspect your dog’s fur. Once you find the culprit, pull it off with the tweezer and dose it in alcohol before disposing of it. You'll also want to put alcohol on your dog’s skin where the tick was to prevent infection.