What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Fleas and Ticks?

The sight of your furry friend trying to deal with fleas and ticks can be overwhelming. This is because they are annoying to your pet and a nuisance to your home. Responsible pet owners know their pets' soft fur and warm body are prime real estate for these intruders. Also, once they start feeding on your pet's hard-earned blood, they can cause serious health issues. 

Here are a few ways you can prevent a tick and flea infestation:

Vet-approved Prevention Products

Using veterinary-approved flea and tick prevention products is the easiest way to deal with them. These over-the-counter medications are available from the pet store or your vet. They are often very effective in controlling fleas and ticks. They can keep these parasites away for up to a month. 

However, you must be careful with these medications to ensure no harm comes to your pet. Consult your veterinarian at Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care about the best product for your situation.

Oral Medicine

Monthly pills for your furry friend are available from pet stores and your pet doctor. These oral medications can eliminate ticks and immature fleas. They are also very effective in disrupting the life cycle of fleas. Administering the oral medications is easy, and you will not have to worry about children encountering your pet.

Tick Collars

These collars work by repelling ticks, especially on the neck and head areas. They are useful additions in your fight against ticks. The tick collar must touch your pet’s skin to facilitate the transfer of the chemicals onto their skin and fur. Ensure the collar properly fits and does not cause discomfort to your pet. 

Tick and Flea Powders

This topical medication uses a medicated powder to repel and kill parasites from your pet. Be careful when applying powders and read the label too. The powder should be specific to your pet’s age and type. It should also be able to kill both fleas and ticks. During peak season, you need to reapply at least once a week.

Treat Your House and Compound

Keeping your trees and lawn well-trimmed helps reduce the population of these parasites. The lesser the breeding space they have, the better. If the problem persists, you can use a veterinary-approved spray treatment that is not harmful to animals or plants. If you are unsure about handling the chemicals, enlist the assistance of an exterminator to eradicate the ticks and fleas professionally.

Limit Their Outdoor Time

Taking your pet outside a few times a day is vital. However, it is not a good idea to allow them outside for long periods during the height of flea and tick season. Also, keep them away from wooded areas where tick populations are rife. However, you must thoroughly check your pet for ticks once you return from the walk.

The Takeaway

There are many other ways to prevent fleas and ticks from your pet. Some are professional, and some can be homemade. Whichever option you choose, consulting your veterinarian first is always prudent.

For more on prevention from fleas and ticks, visit Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care at our office in Arlington, Texas. You can call (817) 633-8160 today to schedule an appointment.