At Green Paws Chicago, we realize that flea and tick infestations put your pet’s health at risk. On top of causing your dog or cat to itch and scratch their skin frantically, these pests can also carry serious diseases. Practicing good flea and tick prevention for dogs helps you keep your pet in good health.
Explore Oral Medications
Oral medications are one of the go-to flea and tick prevention strategies for pet owners. You can choose from over-the-counter medications or ask your pet’s vet for a prescription. Keep in mind that giving pets medications can sometimes be a challenge. Fortunately, you can find flavored pills that pets tend to tolerate.
Consider Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are drops that you’ll typically place on your pet’s neck or back. You can use this type of flea prevention for dogs when your pet won’t take a chewable tablet. If you choose this option, make sure to prevent your pet from licking the area with the topical treatment by applying it to the neck area between the shoulders where your pet can’t reach.
Discuss Vaccines With a Veterinarian
Vets can sometimes administer vaccines to prevent flea infestations. This might be an option if your pet doesn’t tolerate the other types of treatment. You might also choose a vaccine if your pet is at high risk for illness due to fleas or ticks.
Avoid Outdoor Exposures
The best flea and tick prevention for dogs is to avoid exposure in the first place. Try to find safe places to walk your dog. For instance, dog walkers often choose paved walking paths to prevent pets from walking through tall grass that could be harboring pests. Carefully brushing your pet’s fur can also help to remove any possible fleas or ticks that they pick up while they’re outside.
Use Flea and Tick Preventions Properly
Although flea medications are beneficial for preventing health issues, you also want to make sure that you don’t cause your pet to get sick. Making sure to use the products properly helps them to work better, and you can use these strategies to make sure you keep your pet healthy.
Start at the Right Age and Weight
Most flea and tick preventions require pets to be at least eight weeks old and weigh more than five pounds. However, you may be able to work with your vet to find safe treatments for pets that fall outside of these guidelines. Large pets might also require a higher dose of medication. Always read the label on medications that you choose to ensure that your pet is safe.
Make Sure Your Pet Is In Good Health
Pets that are pregnant or nursing might not be eligible for using topical ointments and oral tablets due to the risk to their pups or kittens. Some types of flea prevention strategies may not be safe for pets that have seizures or diabetes. Pets with certain skin conditions may not be able to use topical medications. Starting with a checkup at the vet’s office can help you rule out possible health issues that impact your choice of prevention strategy.
Set Reminders for Re-Treatments
Flea prevention for cats and dogs is often an ongoing process. Fleas and ticks can live throughout the year in most locations. Naturally, topical ointments and oral medications lose their effectiveness over time. Many pet owners use monthly treatments. Setting a calendar reminder can help you know when to give your pet their next treatment.
Create a Well-Rounded Pet Care Plan
Healthy pets are more likely to respond well to flea and tick prevention plans. Make sure to keep your pet at a healthy weight with regular walks and a feeding schedule that fits their needs. Then, ask pet sitters and dog walkers to let you know if they notice any issues with fleas and ticks. Staying vigilant helps your pet stay healthy and happy throughout the height of the pest season.
Regardless of what your strategy is for flea and tick prevention, remember that the right pet sitters and dog walkers can help keep your furry friends safe. Contact our Chicago pet care specialists for all of your pet sitting needs.
