Flea and Tick Prevention

Always check with your vet to determine the flea and tick medication that’s right for your dog or puppy. Most medications require your puppy to be at least 7 weeks old.

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If Your Dog/Puppy Has Fleas:

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1. Ask your vet for a medication that can kill fleas, like Capstar, which is safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks old (and at least 2 pounds). The effect of this medication lasts for 24 hours.

2. Flea shampoos and collars are not very effective, with the exception of Seresto. Speak with your veterinarian about this option, which is suitable for puppies as young as 7 weeks.

3. For younger puppies, the most effective alternative to medication is good, old-fashioned elbow grease in the form of a flea comb. This can be used to check for the presence of fleas and to remove them.

4. You may need to treat your home to remove flea eggs and larvae. All plush furniture and bedding your dog has come in contact with should be cleaned, the floors should be vacuumed, and you must stay vigilant for signs of fleas returning. This may include little black specks called “flea dirt” which can be found around a dog’s stomach or tail. Talk to your vet about extra measures you can take to ensure these pests stay gone for good.

5. Stay alert for signs that your dog has contracted tapeworm from the fleas. Your vet may want to follow up with a fecal sample.

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Keeping Your Dog (and You!) Safe from Ticks!

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Ticks can be uncomfortable for your dog and also carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Anaplasmosis, and more. Your dog can also carry ticks into your home where they may attach to you! So what can you do?

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1. Use a preventative medicine. There are drops as well as oral options that can keep ticks away from your dog.

2. Perform a tick check after your dog has been outside, before he comes indoors.

3. Remove any ticks you find attached to your dog and call your veterinarian for additional guidance.