Your little furry friend cannot wait to enjoy the spring and summer sun, and all the camping trips you’re going to take, but you are probably not so ecstatic about the idea of monkey-like grooming that ensues to make sure your pooch didn’t get fleas or ticks. This is especially annoying for long-haired pooches whose mighty mane makes it almost impossible to be certain that you’ve done a thorough job or that your carpets won’t soon become a flea nest.
The warm weather and its many perks aside, let’s address the common issue doggy parents face: how to treat and preferably prevent flea and tick infestations during the entire year, and even more so during the warmer months. Let’s take a look at the five promising ways you can keep your pooch and your home flea and tick-free!
Keep your yard in neat shape
If you have a backyard, you know that come spring, you’ll be dealing with insects and parasites of all sorts that can actually do quite a damage for your dog. Now, before we move on to the steps you can take to clean and protect your dog, one of the best ways to minimize exposure to ticks and fleas would be by regularly mowing and taking care of your lawn.
Pro tip: plant greenery that will have a guarding effect and that will serve as a natural flea and tick-deterrent. For example, lemongrass and mint make for wonderful options, and you can put them indoors as well. Prepare your own garlic spray to treat the yard occasionally, and you’re good to go.
Focus on preventative measures
Even with a pristine yard and a super-clean home, your pet will play with other dogs, walk in parks, and get exposed to numerous parasites out there. Smaller dogs tend to get infested more easily, so long-term protection is a must. That is why many vets recommend using preventative and long-lasting treatments such as Bravecto for small dog breeds with just the right ingredients to keep your little pooch flea and tick-safe for up to 12 weeks.
These treatments are made to be tasty and easy to administer, so that your dog can perceive them as a treat, and you’ll be all set. However, make sure that your vet gives you the best recommendation based on your dog’s breed, age, size, and overall health!
Stock up on apple cider vinegar
Did you know that ticks and fleas are not huge fans of acidic things? Well, this makes it easier for you to prevent infestations and keep your pooch squeaky clean! Apple cider vinegar diluted with water is a perfect spray-on you can make at home that will cleanse your dog’s lovely fur, give it a beautiful shine, and keep these pesky creatures at bay.
Make sure to use equal amounts of warm water and apple cider vinegar, and you’ll create a solution that is gentle enough for your pooch and still powerful enough to ward off parasites.
Grooming is a must
YouTube is filled with videos proving just how much some pets love the pampering, while others will sulk for hours after a brief combing session. No matter how your pooch behaves, you need to keep up with a regular cleaning and combing routine, and keep your eyes peeled for potential fleas and ticks, especially around those most commonly infested areas, such as their ears, paws, as well as their lovely bums. Using a flea comb is also advisable.
You can also talk to your vet on using a shampoo that is a good match for your pooch, and how often you should use it, especially during the summer months for better protection. If your dog wears back braces or sweaters, make sure to clean them on a regular basis, too. Comb your pooch after every walk to check for any ticks, and of course, to prevent spreading those pesky fleas!
Power up your dog’s accessories
Finally, there are various ways in which you can help your little furball stay extra safe. Adding another layer or two of protection will not only make you feel at ease, but your dog will be able to wander around when you’re heading out for one of your field trips in nature. For example, don’t underestimate the power of fleas during the colder months – sometimes they’ll be hiding in other dogs’ fur and similar warm places.
Put on a home-made flea collar on your pooch for good measure. You can make one by spraying some water with a few drops of lavender oil onto the collar your dog normally wears. This helps reduce the chances of getting fleas or ticks, as lavender is a great repellant!