As the weather gets warmer during the spring, ticks and fleas start to become active again. Both of these bloodsucking pests are drawn to your dog’s warm coat. A pest will land on your pet and burrow into the fur while they consume blood. Ticks generally leave after their meal, but fleas will hang on until removed.
Having fleas or ticks can be uncomfortable for you and your pet. Fleas cause itchiness and allergies in dogs, and ticks can spread deadly diseases through their bites. Your dog can also bring these pests into your home where they spread to your family members, other pets, and furniture.
The best way to keep biting insects away from your dog is to stop them before they latch onto your dog. Failing that, you’ll want to identify fleas and ticks early on to prevent their spread or any potential illnesses. To do this:
If you missed a tick or flea on your pup, you will likely begin to see signs over time. Fleas cause itching, but their ongoing blood consumption can lead to anemia as well, particularly in young puppies. An anemic dog will have a lack of energy and may have pale gums.
Ticks can transmit Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and ehrlichiosis to dogs. Symptoms of these conditions include fever, lack of appetite, joint pain, and swelling. Any symptoms that might be the result of a tick bite or fleas are reason to call your vet.